Interpreting Motion Graphs {Forces and Motion

Distance vs Time Graphs The motion of an object is defined by its change of position over a period of time. Graphs of distance vs. time (or motion graphs) are useful in describing and interpreting motion that is linear. – A straight line indicates constant speed – A horizontal line indicates no motion – An upward sloping line indicates motion away from the initial point – The steeper the slope the faster or slower the motion – Curved indicates a change in speed

Acceleration Acceleration is the time rate change of velocity. Like velocity, it is a vector quantity that includes both an amount and a direction.

Think about it When you measured the speed of a cart rolling down the track, do you think the cars where going the same speed the whole time?