Q1: How do I calculate average speed?
Average speed is calculated by dividing total distance traveled by total time taken. Formula: Average Speed = Total Distance / Total Time. For example, if you travel 100 km in 2 hours, your average speed is 100/2 = 50 km/h.
Q2: What is the difference between average speed and instantaneous speed?
Average speed is the total distance divided by total time for an entire journey. Instantaneous speed is your speed at a specific moment in time. Average speed gives an overall picture, while instantaneous speed shows your speed at any given point.
Q3: How do I convert between different speed units?
Common conversions: 1 km/h = 0.621371 mph, 1 mph = 1.60934 km/h, 1 m/s = 3.6 km/h, 1 km/h = 0.277778 m/s. To convert, multiply by the conversion factor. For example, 60 km/h × 0.621371 = 37.28 mph.
Q4: Does average speed account for stops and changes in speed?
Yes, average speed accounts for all stops, slowdowns, and speed changes during your journey. It's the overall distance divided by total time, including any time spent stationary. This makes it different from constant speed calculations.
Q5: How do I calculate average speed with multiple segments?
For multiple segments, calculate total distance and total time, then divide. Formula: Average Speed = (Distance1 + Distance2 + ...) / (Time1 + Time2 + ...). Don't average the speeds directly, as this gives incorrect results due to different time weights.
Q6: What is a good average speed for different activities?
Walking: 3-5 km/h, Running: 10-15 km/h, Cycling: 15-25 km/h, Driving (city): 30-50 km/h, Driving (highway): 80-120 km/h. These vary greatly by individual fitness, terrain, and conditions. Average speed helps compare performance over time.