Graphs of linear motion

Overview

Gradients and horizontal lines on distance/time and speed/time graphs, area under the curve, velocity/time graphs of a 100 m sprinter and a footballer, and a worked cyclist example.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   What does the gradient of a distance/time graph show?

   Model answer

   The gradient of a distance/time graph shows speed. A steeper gradient means a higher speed.

2. 2

   What does a horizontal line on a distance/time graph show?

   Model answer

   A horizontal line shows that distance is not changing. The performer is stationary.

3. 3

   Describe the distance/time graph of a runner moving at constant speed.

   Model answer

   The graph is a straight diagonal line rising from left to right. The constant gradient shows a constant speed.

4. 4

   How does acceleration appear on a distance/time graph?

   Model answer

   An accelerating performer gives a curve that becomes steeper over time. A curve that flattens out shows deceleration.

5. 5

   What does the gradient of a speed/time graph show?

   Model answer

   The gradient of a speed/time graph shows acceleration. A negative gradient shows deceleration.

6. 6

   What does a horizontal line on a speed/time graph show?

   Model answer

   A horizontal line shows that speed is constant. The performer is neither accelerating nor decelerating.

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