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Change in Velocity Calculator

Find the change in velocity from constant acceleration with Δv = a × t — or solve for acceleration or time. Pick your own units for each value.

 

Formula

$$ \Delta v = a\,t \qquad a = \frac{\Delta v}{t} \qquad t = \frac{\Delta v}{a} $$

Worked example

Accelerating at 3 m/s² for 10 s changes velocity by \( \Delta v = (3)(10) = 30\ \text{m/s} \).

How it works

Under constant acceleration, the change in velocity equals the acceleration multiplied by the time it acts: Δv = a t. It is a direct consequence of the definition of acceleration as the rate of change of velocity.

Enter any two of Δv, a and t to find the third. This is the simplest kinematic relation and underlies impulse (Δp = mΔv = FΔt) and constant-acceleration motion.

Frequently asked questions

How do you calculate change in velocity?

For constant acceleration, Δv = a × t — multiply the acceleration by the time. Alternatively, Δv = final velocity − initial velocity.

What is the difference between velocity and acceleration?

Velocity is how fast something moves (m/s); acceleration is how fast the velocity changes (m/s²). Acceleration times time gives the change in velocity.

What are the units of change in velocity?

The same as velocity: metres per second (m/s), or any speed unit you choose.

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