Relative Velocity Calculator
Enter velocities of two objects. The Relative Velocity Calculator computes the relative velocity vector using classical Galilean transformation — perfect for everyday speeds.
About the Relative Velocity Calculator
The Relative Velocity Calculator is a precise, scientifically accurate tool that computes the velocity of one object as observed from another using classical vector subtraction. This Relative Velocity Calculator implements the Galilean transformation Vₐ₋ᵦ = Vₐ - Vᵦ, valid for all non-relativistic speeds (v << c). Proudly supported by Agri Care Hub.
Scientific Formula
V⃗ₐ₋ᵦ = V⃗ₐ − V⃗ᵦ
Components: Vₐ₋ᵦₓ = Vₐₓ - Vᵦₓ, etc.
Magnitude: |Vₐ₋ᵦ| = √(Vₐ₋ᵦₓ² + Vₐ₋ᵦᵧ² + Vₐ₋ᵦz²)
Why This Calculator Is Essential
Relative velocity is fundamental in: • Classical mechanics and kinematics • Traffic and aviation safety (closing speeds) • Navigation and collision avoidance • Sports physics (ball relative to player) • Robotics and autonomous vehicles • Everyday motion perception Understanding "how fast is A moving from B's perspective" is key to analyzing motion in different frames.
How to Use
- Enter velocity components for Object A (observer or moving object).
- Enter velocity components for Object B (reference frame).
- Positive direction is right/up/forward; negative is opposite.
- Click “Calculate Relative Velocity”.
- Get relative vector, magnitude, and direction.
When Should You Use This Tool?
- Physics problems involving motion in different frames
- Aviation (aircraft relative to ground or each other)
- Maritime navigation and collision avoidance
- Traffic engineering and safety analysis
- Robotics and drone control
- Teaching classical relativity and reference frames
Scientific Foundation
Relative velocity in classical mechanics follows Galilean invariance — velocities add vectorially in all inertial frames. This holds perfectly for everyday speeds (v << c = 3×10⁸ m/s). For near-light speeds, special relativity is needed. Full theory at Relative Velocity on Wikipedia and all classical mechanics textbooks.
Conclusion
The Relative Velocity Calculator brings fundamental classical mechanics to your browser — with perfect accuracy and beautiful design. Whether you’re a student solving kinematics problems, a pilot analyzing airspeed, or an engineer designing collision avoidance systems, this tool delivers precise results every time. For more physics tools, visit Agri Care Hub.