Analyzing Space-Time Trajectories: Rectilinear & Positive Velocity

[fabrc]

There's this graphic of space (s) versus time (t) of a particle.
How would I know if the trajectory is always rectilinear and if the velocity is always positive?

Observation: none of these "sentences" are true in this graphic. But I want to know how would I know these things if they were true.

 

[voko]

If "space" means "displacement from some point in a particular direction", then the fact that this displacement decreases at certain times should tell you something about the velocity in that direction.

You cannot deduce whether the trajectory is rectilinear from this, because you are simply not given enough information.

 

[fabrc]

Thanks, voko!

Sorry. So the term "space" is wrong? English isn't my natural language, and here in my country there's any good forums of physics.

 

[voko]

Have a look here:http://www.physicsclassroom.com/Class/1DKin/U1L1c.cfm

 

[PJC01]

As a scientist, it is important to approach any data or information with a critical and analytical mindset. In order to determine if a trajectory is always rectilinear and if the velocity is always positive, we must first understand the definitions of these terms.

A rectilinear trajectory refers to motion along a straight line. This means that the particle's position (s) changes at a constant rate over time (t), resulting in a linear graph. To determine if a trajectory is always rectilinear, we would need to analyze the graph and look for any changes in the slope or curvature. If the graph remains a straight line without any sudden changes, we can conclude that the trajectory is indeed rectilinear.

Positive velocity refers to motion in the positive direction, which is typically represented by an upward trend on a graph. In the context of space-time trajectories, this would mean that the particle is moving away from its starting point. To determine if the velocity is always positive, we would need to analyze the slope of the graph. If the slope remains positive throughout the entire trajectory, we can conclude that the velocity is always positive.

In order to accurately determine if a trajectory is always rectilinear and if the velocity is always positive, we would also need to consider external factors such as external forces acting on the particle and any changes in the particle's speed. It is also important to note that in real-world scenarios, trajectories and velocities may not always be constant due to various factors.

In conclusion, to determine if a trajectory is always rectilinear and if the velocity is always positive, we must carefully analyze the graph and consider external factors. It is also important to keep in mind that these characteristics may not always be constant in real-world scenarios.