Is Average Velocity a Vector or Scalar?

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Average velocity is a vector quantity, defined as displacement divided by time, which can have both magnitude and direction. In contrast, average speed is a scalar quantity that measures the total distance traveled divided by the time interval, lacking direction. The distinction between these two concepts is crucial, as they represent different physical phenomena. Understanding the difference helps clarify the nature of motion in physics. Thus, average velocity is indeed a vector, while average speed is a scalar.
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hello,
could you please tell me if the velocity is the average speed a vector or scalar quantity?

thanks a lot
 
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elton_fan said:
hello,
could you please tell me if the velocity is the average speed a vector or scalar quantity?

thanks a lot
velocity and average speed are not the same. Please rephrase your question and tell us whether you feel each or both are scalar or vector quantities, and your reasoning behind your answer.
 
Average velocity is defined as displacement over time, or the change in position divided by time. Average speed, however, is equal to the distance traveled divided by the time interval of the motion. The two quantities are completely different. One is a vector and one a scalar; do you know why?
 
i think average velocity is a vector since it can be positive or negative right
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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