Area under a velocity-time graph gives distance travelled
2 marks · EasyThe table below shows the velocity of a cart at different times.
| Time (s) | Velocity (m/s) |
|---|---|
| 0 | 0 |
| 2 | 6 |
| 4 | 6 |
| 6 | 0 |
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24 m (±1)
Also accept: 24; 24 m
Common mistakes: Forgetting to calculate separate areas for triangle and rectangle
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Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · Divides graph into shapes/uses average velocity and time.
A1 · 1 mark · Correctly finds total distance travelled = 24 m.
Worked solution
Divide the velocity–time graph into three regions:
1. From 0 to 2 s: triangle (0 to 6 m/s)
2. From 2 to 4 s: rectangle at 6 m/s
3. From 4 to 6 s: triangle (6 to 0 m/s)
Total distance = 6 + 12 + 6 = 24 m