

Therefore, the slope of the velocity versus time graph is acceleration.Ī graph, like a picture, is worth a thousand words. The slope of this linear graph has units, which are acceleration units. This process is demonstrated in Figure 2.48 (a) and (b). Then, we can use that table to plot velocity versus time. We can determine instantaneous velocities at multiple points along a position-time graph with constant non-zero acceleration and make a table relating these instantaneous velocities to the specified time along the x-axis where we found them. To determine instantaneous velocity at a given time when acceleration is a non-zero constant, take a look at Example 2.18. Pay attention to the tangent lines drawn in Figure 2.48 (a). The instantaneous slope can be determined by drawing a tangent line at the desired point along the graph and determining slope. In the position versus time graph, the slope at any given point is the instantaneous velocity of the object. Note that while the position versus time graph is not linear, the velocity versus time graph is linear. You can see an example of this type of graph in Figure 2.48. When acceleration is a non-zero constant, the graph of position versus time is no longer linear.
Graphical analysis of motion acceleration time graph how to#
See how to calculate the average velocity of an object from this type of graph in Example 2.17.

Therefore, the slope for a graph of position versus time with zero acceleration is the average velocity of that object.

In this case, the unit for slope is m/s, which is the unit for velocity. In this graph, we can determine the slope by picking two different points on the line, taking the change in y-value, and dividing it by the change in x-value between those two points. See an example of this type of graph in Figure 2.47. As you read, pay attention to Figure 2.46 which is an example of a linear graph is the graph of position versus time when acceleration is zero. Read this text for an introduction on graphical position, velocity, and acceleration with regards to one another.
