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.
