Speed - GCSE Maths Definition

Speed is a measure of how an object's position is changing with time - i.e. how quickly it is moving. The standard unit for speed is m s^-1 (or ^m/s) which is 'metres per second'. Other frequently used units for time are mph, miles per hour and kmh^-1 (or km/h or kmph) for kilometres per hour.

Speed is related to distance and time y the formula

Speed = Distance ÷ Time

Strictly speaking, we should use the term 'average speed' as we recognise that, in the real world, speed is likely to vary during different parts of a journey. Average speed would then refer to 'the speed if the object was moving at the same rate for the whole journey'.

Speed is a rate of change; it is how an object's position changes, in relation to time. Speed is always positive, as we are not concerned with the direction the object is moving, only how fast it is moving.