How to Calculate Harmonic Mean
What is Harmonic Mean?
The harmonic mean is the reciprocal of the arithmetic mean of reciprocals. It is the correct average for rates — when the denominator unit (time, distance) is constant.
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1HM = n / (1/x₁ + 1/x₂ + ... + 1/xₙ)
- 2Always ≤ geometric mean ≤ arithmetic mean
- 3Use for averaging rates, speeds, P/E ratios
Worked Examples
Input
60 km/h there and 40 km/h back (equal distances)
Result
HM = 48 km/h (not 50 km/h)
2/(1/60+1/40)=48
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