Change in velocity
What Change in velocity means in Physics GCSE, as defined for AQA, OCR.
Definitions of Change in velocity
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Change in velocity in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Found by subtracting the initial velocity from the final velocity, with velocities recorded with their direction signs before subtracting.
The final velocity v minus the initial velocity u, and dividing this by the time taken gives the acceleration.
Found by subtracting the initial velocity from the final velocity, keeping signs to show direction.
Found by subtracting the initial velocity from the final velocity, keeping direction in mind.
Topics that use Change in velocity
- Acceleration (AQA GCSE)
- Motion (OCR GCSE)
Related terms
- Acceleration
- displacement
- distance travelled
- gradient
- Uniform acceleration
- Velocity
- velocity-time graph
- Acceleration and units
Using Change in velocity in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge