Average Speed Formula — the NEET Physics formula with its derivation, variables, validity constraints and worked solver.
Average Speed Formula General Kinematics. Valid for any type of motion (uniform, non-uniform, curved paths) as long as total path length and total duration are known. Define Average Speed as the rate of covering distance. Identify total path length (distance) as d. Identify total time elapsed as t. Formulate ratio v avg = d / t. t > 0 d >= 0 v avg >= 0 (Speed is scalar and cannot be negative) Confusing Average Speed with Average Velocity (Displacement / Time). Assuming Average Speed is the arithmetic mean of initial and final speeds ((v i + v f)/2), which is only true for constant acceleration. Thinking speed can be negative.