Instantaneous Speed vs Velocity
Demonstrating why instantaneous speed equals the magnitude of instantaneous velocity
Particle Position
Position Graph
Velocity Graph
t = 0.00 s
Instantaneous Speed
0.00 m/s
Velocity Magnitude
0.00 m/s
Physics Explanation
This simulation demonstrates that instantaneous speed is always equal to the magnitude of instantaneous velocity in one-dimensional motion.
For infinitesimally small time intervals, the distance traveled equals the magnitude of displacement, making speed equal to velocity magnitude.
Key points:
- Speed is a scalar quantity (magnitude only)
- Velocity is a vector quantity (magnitude and direction)
- In 1D motion, direction is indicated by sign (+/-)
- For instantaneous values, the magnitudes are equal
