1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Physics

Velocity

By , About.com Guide

Definition: Velocity is a vector measurement of the rate and direction of motion or, in other terms, the rate and direction of the change in the position of an object. The scalar (absolute value) magnitude of the velocity vector is the speed of the motion. In calculus terms, velocity is the first derivative of position with respect to time.

The SI units for velocity are m / s (meters per second).

Explore Physics

About.com Special Features

A Smarter Future

Tips that will help finance your education, excel in the classroom, and advance your career. More >

How to Ace the GRE

Being well prepared is the first step; here are more essential suggestions. More >

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Physics
  4. Physics Dictionary
  5. Physics: U to Z
  6. Velocity - definition of velocity

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.