Graphing Steps, Types, & Relationships
Steps Draw axes on graph paper with ruler. Label axes with quantity and unit. Determine range of x & y quantities.Scale axes evenly using as much of the allotted space as possible. Plot points. Draw a smooth best fit curve. Title graph.
Draw axes.
Label axes. Time (sec) Speed (m/s)
Determine range. Time (sec) Speed (m/s) What are the highest x & y values? Let’s say max. x = 30 max y = 45
Scale evenly. Time (sec) Speed (m/s) Always start from “0”. Keep each increment constant. Keep the same space (#of blocks) between each increment. Do not use “ “. It distorts the shape.
Plot points. Speed (m/s) Time (sec)
Draw best fit. Speed (m/s) A best fit passes through or nearby a majority of the points. It does not have to pass through every point. Very questionable point, do not count. Time (sec)
Title. Speed (m/s) 5 10 Time (sec) Speed vs. Time 15
Types There are three basic graph types we will encounter frequently. Each has its own distinctive shape and formula. The graphed quantities will have a unique relationship.
Formula : y = mx + b X and Y increase together. Relationship between x & y - DIRECT.
Parabolic Formula : y = kx 2 X and Y increase together, but not at same rate. Y increases faster than X. Relationship between x & y - QUADRATIC.
Hyperbolic Formula : xy = k As X increases, Y decreases. Relationship between x & y - INVERSE.