In physics, speed is a fundamental scalar quantity that quantifies the rate at which an object changes its position over time. Mathematically, it is determined by dividing the total distance covered by the elapsed time, resulting in units of distance per unit time, such as meters per second. Conceptually, speed is distinct from velocity, as it describes the magnitude of the rate of change of position while disregarding the direction of motion. The principle of speed governs kinematics, the branch of mechanics concerned with the motion of objects, and forms the basis for calculating trajectories and analyzing the efficiency of engineered systems, ranging from orbital mechanics to vehicular movement.