Understanding Position-Time Graphs: Can They Determine Speed?

In summary, a position-time graph can tell you both the speed and velocity of an object's motion. The speed is the magnitude of the velocity, which can be found by finding the slope of the line on the graph. This applies to motion in one dimension. However, if the position axis does not represent distance, then the graph may not accurately depict speed and velocity.
  • #1
noodles
1
0
Can the position-time graph tell you the speed?
I thought it was ONLY velocity.

Can you please give me an example when IT DOESN'T allow you to find the speed?

Thanks so much in advance!
 
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  • #2
Speed is the magnitude of the velocity, if you can find the velocity you can always obtain the speed.
 
  • #3
Presumably we are talking about motion in one dimension, otherwise it's not clear what the position axis represents.

In which case a graph of position vs time gives you speed and velocity. The direction component of velocity comes from the slope of the line. +ve slope is away from the origin, -ve slope is towards the origin.
 
  • #4
Just to piggyback for additional clarity: if you find the slope of the tangent line on a position vs. time graph you have found the velocity at that instant. The absolute value of the slope is the speed.
 

1. What is a position-time graph?

A position-time graph, also known as a displacement-time graph, is a visual representation of an object's position or displacement over a period of time. It shows how an object's position changes relative to a reference point.

2. How is the position of an object determined from a position-time graph?

The position of an object can be determined by locating the point on the graph where the position-time curve intersects the time axis. This point represents the object's initial position or its position at a specific time.

3. What does a horizontal line on a position-time graph indicate?

A horizontal line on a position-time graph indicates that the object is not moving, as its position does not change over time. The slope of the line is zero, representing zero velocity.

4. How is velocity calculated from a position-time graph?

Velocity is calculated by finding the slope of the position-time graph. The slope is equal to the change in position divided by the change in time, which represents the object's average velocity over that time interval.

5. What do steep and gentle slopes on a position-time graph represent?

A steep slope on a position-time graph represents a higher velocity or speed, as the position changes rapidly over time. A gentle slope indicates a lower velocity or speed, as the position changes slowly over time.

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