Velocity-time graphs
3 marks · NormalA toy car moves in a straight line. The velocity–time graph for the car is shown below:
Calculate the gradient of the graph.
State what the gradient represents about the car's motion.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
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(a) 2.0 m/s^2
(b) The car is accelerating at a constant rate of 2.0 m/s^2. · must show states acceleration, states constant
Common mistakes: using wrong axis units; calling gradient velocity
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
M1 (a) · 1 mark · Correctly calculates gradient: (10-0)/(5-0) = 2.0 m/s^2.
B1 (b) · 1 mark · Recognises gradient as acceleration.
B2 (b) · 1 mark · States the acceleration is constant or uniform.
Worked solution
a) Gradient = (10 − 0) / (5 − 0) = 2.0 m/s^2.
b) The gradient represents the car’s acceleration. Since the graph is a straight line, the car accelerates at a constant rate.