Speed, Distance and Time

Speed is an example of a compound measure, which is one that involves more than one unit of measurement. 

Speed is a measure of distance (e.g. miles, km) in relation to time (e.g. hours, minutes) and can be measured in mph (miles per hour), km/h etc....

Throughout a typical journey, speed varies.  It stays constant, it increases and it decreases.

You should know the following formulae and may use the triangle to help you remember the three Distance, Speed, Time formulae.

Example 1

A train leaves London at 1130 and arrives in Portsmouth at 1220.  The distance between the two stations is 110 km.  Find the average speed in km/h.

Answer

First we must state the time taken in hours, not in minutes.

Time taken = 50 minutes = 5/6 hour

Average Speed = Total distance ÷ Total time = 110 ÷ 5/6 = 110 × 6/5 = 132 km/h

Example 2

During a car journey, John travels at an average speed of 90 km/h for 2 hours 30 minutes.  Find the distance travelled.

Answer

Distance = Speed x Time

The units must match so time must be measured in hours.

Distance = 90 x 2½ = 225 km