Area under a velocity-time graph gives distance travelled
3 marks · NormalThe graph shows the motion of a car as it accelerates uniformly from rest to 18 m/s in 6 seconds.
Calculate the total distance the car travels in the first 6 seconds.
State the shape formed under the graph and briefly describe how you found the distance.
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.
Show answer
(a) 54 m · must show Area = ½ × 6 × 18
(b) The shape is a triangle. The distance is the area of the triangle: ½ × base × height. · must show States 'triangle', Mentions area formula
Must show: Area calculated using correct formula
Common mistakes: Calculating rectangle, not triangle; Forgetting to halve the product
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
M1 (a) · 1 mark · Uses correct area formula: ½ × base × height.
A1 (a) · 1 mark · Gives correct answer: 54 m (accept 53–55).
B1 (b) · 1 mark · States shape under the graph is a triangle and links to area calculation.
Worked solution
a) Area = ½ × base × height = ½ × 6 s × 18 m/s = 54 m.
b) The shape is a triangle. I found the distance by calculating the area of the triangle under the graph.