Question

Which of the following are obtained by dividing total displacement by total time taken?

(a) Average velocity

(b) Instantaneous velocity

(c) Uniform velocity

(d) Speed

This question was addressed to me in an interview for internship.

This intriguing question originated from Introduction to Motion in a Straight Line in division Motion in a Straight Line of Physics – Class 11

Answer 1

Correct choice is (a) Average velocity

The explanation is: The average velocity is obtained by dividing total displacement by total time taken. Instantaneous velocity is calculated at an instant and not over a period of time. Speed is distance divided by time. Velocity is said to be uniform when velocity at every instant is equal to the average velocity.