Calculating Average Speed and Average Velocity

What is the difference between average speed and average velocity?

Choose the correct statement:

A. Average speed takes into account only the distance traveled, while average velocity considers the displacement of the object.

B. Average speed considers displacement of the object, while average velocity only takes into account the distance traveled.

Answer:

The correct statement is A. Average speed takes into account only the distance traveled, while average velocity considers the displacement of the object.

When calculating the average speed and average velocity of an object, it is important to understand the difference between the two concepts. Average speed is defined as the total distance traveled divided by the total time taken to travel that distance. On the other hand, average velocity is the total displacement of the object divided by the total time taken to make that displacement.

In the given example where a car travels from point A to point B and back to point A, the average speed is calculated as the total distance of 134.2 miles divided by the total time of 8.1 hours, resulting in an average speed of 38.6 miles per hour. This value indicates how fast the car is moving without considering its direction.

On the other hand, the average velocity for the car in this scenario is 0 miles per hour. This is because the car returns to its starting point, resulting in a displacement of 0 miles. Average velocity takes the direction of movement into account and, in this case, it indicates that the car has no net displacement over the total time period.

Remember, average speed and average velocity are different measures and provide distinct information about an object's motion. Average speed focuses on the total distance traveled, while average velocity considers the object's displacement. Understanding these concepts is crucial in analyzing an object's movement accurately.