Velocity

When discussing electromagnetic waves, velocity encompasses both the magnitude and direction of propagation, providing a complete description of the wave’s displacement. On the other hand, speed represents the magnitude of motion but does not consider the direction in which the wave is propagating.

Velocity
  • Velocity is a vector quantity that refers to the rate at which an object changes its position with respect to time.
  • It includes both the magnitude (speed) and direction of an object’s motion.
  • Velocity describes the displacement of an object per unit of time in a specific direction.
  • Velocity can be positive or negative, representing motion in different directions.
  • Velocity is measured in units such as meters per second (m/s), kilometres per hour (km/h), or miles per hour (mph), along with an indication of direction.
Speed
  • Speed is a scalar quantity that refers to the rate at which an object covers distance.
  • It is the magnitude of the displacement of an object per unit of time.
  • Speed does not consider the direction of motion, only the rate at which an object moves.
  • Speed is always positive or zero, representing the magnitude of motion.
  • Speed is measured in units such as meters per second (m/s), kilometres per hour (km/h), or miles per hour (mph).
Related diagrams

Each diagram below can be viewed on its own page with a full explanation.

References
  • When discussing electromagnetic waves, velocity encompasses both the magnitude and direction of propagation, providing a complete description of the wave’s displacement. On the other hand, speed represents the magnitude of motion but does not consider the direction in which the wave is propagating.
Velocity
  • Velocity is a vector quantity that refers to the rate at which an object changes its position with respect to time.
  • It includes both the magnitude (speed) and direction of an object’s motion.
Speed
  • Speed is a scalar quantity that refers to the rate at which an object covers distance.
  • It is the magnitude of the displacement of an object per unit of time.