Distance-time Graph and Velocity-time Graphs

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the methodology for constructing a velocity-time (VT) graph from a distance-time (DT) graph. The key takeaway is that the slope of the DT graph at any point represents the velocity at that time. To create the VT graph, one must align the time axes of both graphs and determine the slope of the DT graph at various points, plotting these values on the VT graph. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between position, velocity, and acceleration in this process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of distance-time graph interpretation
  • Familiarity with the concept of slope in mathematics
  • Knowledge of basic kinematics principles
  • Ability to graph functions on Cartesian coordinates
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to calculate slopes from distance-time graphs
  • Study the relationship between acceleration and velocity in kinematics
  • Explore graphical representation techniques for motion analysis
  • Practice drawing VT graphs from various DT graphs
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Students studying physics, educators teaching kinematics, and anyone interested in understanding motion through graphical analysis.

Alain12345
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Can someone please explain to me how to draw a velocity-time graph from a distance-time graph? Are there any general rules about drawing a VT graph from DT graph?

Thanks a lot.
 
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From a DT graph, you can obtain the velocity at different times. With that information you can draw your VT graph.
 
Are you familiar with the mathematical relationships between position, velocity and acceleration?
 
Yes I am, but I'm having trouble drawing th graphs.
 
Alain12345 said:
Yes I am, but I'm having trouble drawing th graphs.
Well then, if the velocity is constant, what does the position do with respect to time?
 
Velocity is the slope on the distance vs. time graph.

Beneath your distance vs time graph, setup the axes for the velocity vs time... choose the same scale on the time axis for both position and velocity... and line them up.

Now, for each time t, visit the point [event] on the position graph and imagine zooming in. Assuming a smooth enough motion, the graph near that point looks like a line [in your viewport]. Determine the slope of that line and plot, for that time t, the value on the velocity graph. [If you are just doing a sketch, just approximate that slope... is the slope positive, negative, or zero? After advancing to a later time, does that slope increase, decrease or stay the same? It may help to "ride the position graph" with your left hand.]

Try that out.
 

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