How this calculator works
Displacement is final position minus initial position. It can cancel when an object reverses direction, so it differs from total path length. Constant acceleration makes velocity vary linearly; the average of its endpoints then gives the displacement. Timed segments instead add each signed velocity multiplied by its duration. Enter one duration for every velocity, in the same order, for up to ten segments.
Formula
s = vt; s = ut + at^2/2; s = (u+v)t/2; s_segments = sum(vi ti).
Worked example
A velocity of -3 m/s for 4 s gives -12 m displacement. Starting at 2 m/s with acceleration 3 m/s2 for 4 s gives 32 m displacement and 14 m/s final velocity.
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Frequently asked questions
Is displacement always positive?
No. A negative result indicates a final position behind the starting point along your chosen axis.
Can I use the average of two velocities?
Only when velocity changes linearly with time, as it does under constant acceleration.
Why do timed segments need durations?
Longer intervals contribute more displacement. An unweighted average is correct only for equal durations.