Speed = Distance/Time: Explained

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter usernameee
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the formula for speed, specifically the relationship expressed as v = d/t, where v represents speed, d represents distance, and t represents time. Participants explore the definition of average speed and the mathematical representation of this relationship.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants inquire about the formula v = d/t and seek clarification on its meaning.
  • One participant states that average speed is defined as distance divided by time.
  • Another participant suggests an alternative expression, v = d*t, which is challenged by others.
  • There is a discussion about the terminology used, specifically the replacement of "per" with the division symbol "/".
  • Participants explain that "per" translates to division in mathematical terms, using examples like miles per hour.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

While there is some agreement on the definition of average speed, disagreement exists regarding the alternative expression v = d*t, which is not accepted by all participants. The discussion remains unresolved on this point.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the equivalence of different formulations of speed and the implications of terminology in mathematical expressions.

usernameee
Messages
4
Reaction score
0
Why dose v = d/t ?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
usernameee said:
Why dose v = d/t ?
Did you have some specific problem in mind?

Average speed, by definition, equals distance/time.
 
so, it could be also: v = d*t ?
 
usernameee said:
so, it could be also: v = d*t ?
No. Those are not equivalent at all.

Think how speed would be measured: meters per second, m/s, for example.
 
why did you replace per with / ... ?
 
Last edited:
usernameee said:
why did you replace per with / ... ?
That's what it means. I just translated everyday language into the more precise mathematical language.

If your speed is 60 miles per hour, you can write that as 60 miles/hour.
 
I got it... Thanks!
 

Similar threads

High School Speed is distance multiplied by time -- Is this correct?
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
1K
High School Formula for time in terms of acceleration and distance
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
High School Where does the 1/2 in 1/2 at^2 come from?
  • · Replies 48 ·
2
Replies
48
Views
5K
Undergrad Find the constant acceleration of an object that slows down to a standstill
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
Undergrad Instantaneous velocity - displacement and distance
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
High School Why higher speeds need more power if the backward force is the same?
  • · Replies 38 ·
2
Replies
38
Views
2K
High School Applying the distance formula d= v*t + 1/2a*t^2
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
9K
High School Shortest distance between two points
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
High School The horizontal speed of an object does not affect the time it takes to fall vertically?
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
2K
High School Thoughts about Galilean transformations
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K