Displacement Calculator (s = ut + ½at²)

This calculator solves the SUVAT equation of motion, s = ut + half a t squared, for displacement, initial velocity, acceleration or time, for any object moving with constant acceleration. It is the equation to reach for whenever three of the four quantities are known and you need the fourth, whether checking a physics assignment, verifying a lab result or estimating how far something travels under steady acceleration. Choose which quantity to solve for from the dropdown, then enter the remaining three values in SI units: metres for displacement, metres per second for initial velocity, metres per second squared for acceleration, and seconds for time. The calculator instantly returns the solved value with its unit, plus a short summary confirming which quantity was found. Solving for time uses the quadratic formula and returns the first positive root, since a negative time has no physical meaning; if acceleration is zero, the equation collapses to s = ut, so time is simply displacement divided by velocity. A worked example below shows the sums for an object starting from rest under a steady acceleration of 2 metres per second squared. The tool suits physics students, teachers and engineers running a quick sanity check on motion. As with any equation of motion, it assumes acceleration stays perfectly constant, so treat the result as a straightforward physics calculation, not a substitute for full engineering analysis.

Calculate.co.nz is proud to be partnered with Premium Homes, a recognised leader in eco-friendly, sustainable, and energy-efficient homebuilding. With a dedicated team and award-winning experience, they create homes that prioritise health, comfort, and long-term performance. Their founders, Andrew and Kelly, set out to raise the standard of residential construction in New Zealand by combining practical building expertise with a clear commitment to doing things better for homeowners.