---
title: "Speed — AP Calculus AB/BC Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Speed is the absolute value of velocity, |v(t)|, in AP Calc. Learn how it differs from velocity, when particles speed up, and how it gives total distance."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-calc/key-terms/speed"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Calculus AB/BC"
---

# Speed — AP Calculus AB/BC Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Speed is simply how fast an object moves, without considering its direction. It measures distance covered per unit of time.

## Related Study Guides

- [4.2 Straight-Line Motion: Connecting Position, Velocity, and Acceleration](/ap-calc/unit-4/straight-line-motion-connecting-position-velocity-acceleration/study-guide/2ZIESajDNiJ4ENTrnDT6)
- [9.6 Solving Motion Problems Using Parametric and Vector-Valued Functions](/ap-calc/unit-9/solving-motion-problems-using-parametric-vector-valued-functions/study-guide/822WmESOAkewHtJt1Cd1)

## Review

### Related Terms

- Distance: Distance is the total length traveled by an object, regardless of its starting and ending points.
- [Average Velocity](/ap-calc/key-terms/average-velocity): Average velocity is calculated by dividing displacement by time taken. It takes into account both distance and direction.
- Instantaneous Speed: Instantaneous speed is the magnitude of an object's velocity at a specific moment in time.