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Questions in this assignment pertain to both position-time and velocity-time graphs. When presented together, there is a strong probability that any confusion that a student has concerning the graphs will rise to the surface. As a first step in answering each question, make a mental note of which graph is being displayed. Then review the rules for that graph before looking for a reasonable answer. See Know the Law section.
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This is a velocity-time graph. The line is located in the positive region of the graph at all times. This is representative of an object that is moving in the positive direction. At first the line slopes upward and away from the v=0 m/s level. This represents the motion of an object which is speeding up. Finally, the slope of the line changes and becomes more steep. The line continues to slope upward and away from the v=0 m/s level. Once more, this represents the motion of an object which is speeding up. The fact that the slope is greater in the second half of the graph compared to the first half means that rate of acceleration has increased. The object is speeding up gradually at first and then later at a more drastic rate.
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Velocity-Time Graphs:
Velocity versus time graphs represent changes that occur in an object's velocity with respect to time. The slope of the line is the acceleration (change in velocity divided by the change in time) of the object.
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