Area under a velocity-time graph gives distance travelled
2 marks · NormalWhat does the area under a velocity–time graph represent? Give an example of how you could find it for an object moving at constant velocity.
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It represents the distance travelled; for constant velocity, multiply velocity by time (area of a rectangle under the graph).
Must show: States area = distance travelled, Mentions product of velocity × time (rectangle)
Also accept: The distance moved; area is just rectangle for constant speed.; Distance; just multiply speed and time if speed stays the same.
Common mistakes: Confusing area with speed or time; Thinking area gives displacement (not always for negative values)
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Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · Correctly states area under velocity–time graph represents distance.
B2 · 1 mark · Explains for constant velocity, find area as velocity × time (rectangle).
Worked solution
The area under a velocity–time graph is the distance travelled. For an object moving at constant velocity, the area under the graph is a rectangle, so the distance = velocity × time.