What is Average Speed?

Average speed can be defined as the total distance traveled divided by given time interval. In other words, it can be represented as a function of total path length traveled divided by total time interval. It is a scalar quantity. Thus, it is measured using magnitude only. The average speed is independent of the direction in which object moved.

$Average Speed = \frac{Total Path Length}{Total Time Interval}$

Let's say, the body is at a point P (O being a reference point in a one-dimensional frame of reference) at time 2:00 pm. In next 1 minute, it traveled 1 km. In another 3 minute, it traveled 5 km.

The average speed of the body can be calculated as the following:

$\frac{1000 + 5000}{60 + 180}$

= $\frac{6000}{240}$

= 25 $\frac{m}{s}$


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