What is speed?

Speed is defined as the rate of movement in terms of distance measured in an allotted amount of time. This definition captures the essence of what speed signifies in physics and aviation contexts. Specifically, speed quantifies how quickly an object moves from one point to another and is expressed as a ratio of distance to time, usually in units like meters per second or miles per hour.

In practical terms, understanding speed is essential for pilots and aviation personnel because it directly impacts flight operations, navigation, and safety considerations. For example, during takeoff, landing, and in-flight maneuvers, awareness of an aircraft's speed helps in maintaining safe operational standards and adaptability to varying flight conditions.

The other options do not accurately define speed in the context relevant to aviation. While the rate of change of position describes velocity, which includes direction, it does not solely focus on speed. Maximum distance traveled pertains more to range rather than speed, and force applied relates to mechanics but does not define speed itself.