2. Contrast the metric units of distance, time, and speed. Describe the relationship between them.
To contrast the metric units of distance, time, and speed, let's examine each unit separately:
1. Distance:
The metric unit for distance is the meter (m). It is the basic unit of length in the International System of Units (SI). The meter measures how far an object travels along a straight line.
2. Time:
The metric unit for time is the second (s). It is also a fundamental unit in the SI. The second measures the duration or interval between events or actions.
3. Speed:
Speed is a derived metric unit that measures the rate at which an object moves. The metric unit for speed is meters per second (m/s). It indicates how many meters an object travels in one second.
Now, let's explore the relationship between these units:
- Speed is defined as the distance traveled per unit of time. In other words, speed is calculated by dividing the distance by the time taken.
- To find the speed of an object, you need to measure the distance it covers and the time it takes to cover that distance.
- The formula for speed is: Speed = Distance / Time.
- By rearranging the formula, you can solve for distance or time:
- Distance = Speed * Time
- Time = Distance / Speed
So, the relationship between distance, time, and speed is interdependent. Speed is calculated by dividing the distance traveled by the time taken, while distance and time can be derived from speed using appropriate formulas.