Velocity and acceleration describe the motion of an object and are related. Both are measurable quantities with magnitude and direction. However, there are similarities and differences between the two.
Velocity vs. Acceleration
Velocity is a measure of the rate of change of displacement. When an object moves from one position to another, it is said to be displaced. The value of displacement over time gives the velocity. Its direction is along the displacement.
On the other hand, acceleration measures the rate of change in velocity. The object may change its speed or direction while keeping the speed constant. In both cases, it experiences acceleration. While acceleration refers to an increase in speed over time, its opposite, when the speed decreases with time, is called deceleration.
Difference Between Velocity and Acceleration
Graph of Velocity and Acceleration
The table below shows the significant differences between the two.
- References What is the Difference Between Velocity And Acceleration? – Sciencing.com What is Acceleration? – Khanacademy.org Velocity and Acceleration – Studysmarter.us Speed vs. Velocity vs. Acceleration – Study.com
Article was last reviewed on Tuesday, April 18, 2023
