An aggregate rate keeps a rate’s numerator and denominator together. It answers “how much total quantity per total exposure?” rather than averaging already-calculated row rates.
The relationship
The defining relationship
aggregate rate = Σquantity ÷ Σexposure
A quantity might be units produced, money earned, or distance; exposure is its matching time, distance, area, or other common denominator.
See the idea
Combine totals before dividing
10 units2 h5 / h
12 units4 h3 / h
22 units ÷ 6 h = 11/3 per hour
Worked example
Two production periods
10 units in 2 hours and 12 units in 4 hours produce 22 units in 6 hours. The aggregate rate is 22 ÷ 6 = 11/3 units per hour; the simple mean of 5 and 3 would be wrong.
Interpret with care
Choose the relationship that fits
All exposure values must use the same unit. A general aggregate rate does not replace a dedicated journey, finance, or scientific model when extra rules affect the result.
Enter each quantity together with the exposure over which it occurred.
Keep exposure units consistent across rows.
Use total quantity divided by total exposure—not the unweighted average of row rates.
Calculation method
Aggregate numerators and denominators first
The combined rate is the sum of quantities divided by the sum of exposures. The calculator also shows the naive row-rate average so the weighting difference is visible.
Worked example
Combine work rates
Producing 10 units in 2 hours and 12 units in 4 hours gives 22/6 units per hour, not the simple mean of 5 and 3.
aggregate rate = (10+12)/(2+4) = 11/3
Supported inputs
Precision and limits
List size
Add 1–100 labelled value rows.
Decimal size
Each value may contain up to 200 digits and 100 decimal places.
Exactness
Exact rational results are never replaced by a rounded decimal; approximations are labelled.
Exposure
Every exposure must be strictly positive and use the same unit.
Scope
This is a general aggregate-rate tool; journey speed and arrival workflows remain in Travel & Motion.
