Describing Motion with Position vs. Time Graphs

The Meaning of Shape for a p-t Graph

The specific features of the motion of objects are demonstrated by the shape and the slope of the lines on a position vs. time graph.

To begin, consider a car moving with a constant, rightward (+) velocity of 10 m/s.

position vs. time graph The resulting graph would look like the graph at the right. Note that a motion with constant, positive velocity results in a line of constant and positive slope.

Graphing:

· Distance vs time graph

Graph the following

Time (s)	Distance (m)
0.0	0.0
1.0	2.0
2.0	4.0
3.0	6.0
10.0	20.0

Average:

a. What is the slope of the line?

b. What does the slope of the line represent?

a. Dy/Dx --> Dd/Dt --> 10/20 = 2m/s

b. speed or Velocity (positive direction)

Tuesday 14th : Lab: Mass, Weight & Density

L#4: 1-15, 18, 22 Due Wed 15 Sep (Mass, Wt, Speed, Vel)

Wed: W/S Vectors

L#5: 1-15, 21 Due Friday 17 Sep