How is average velocity calculated?

Average velocity is calculated using:

v_avg = (total displacement) / (total time)

Or when you know initial and final velocities:

v_avg = (u + v) / 2

(Note: The second formula only works for constant acceleration)

Important distinctions:

• The (u + v)/2 formula ONLY works when acceleration is constant throughout the motion
• For non-uniform acceleration, use total displacement divided by total time
• Average velocity can be zero even if you traveled a large distance (if you return to starting point)

Example: A runner completes a 400-meter circular track in 80 seconds. Average speed = 5 m/s, but average velocity = 0 m/s (displacement is zero because they returned to the starting point).