Sketching velocity graph from acceleration graph

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around interpreting an acceleration vs. time graph to sketch a corresponding velocity vs. time graph. Participants are exploring the relationship between acceleration and velocity, particularly how the area under the acceleration graph relates to changes in velocity over time.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to understand how to translate the area under the acceleration graph into a velocity graph. Questions are raised about the implications of constant acceleration, no acceleration, and deceleration on the velocity. There is also discussion about the necessity of initial speed for accurate graphing.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants providing insights and questioning each other's interpretations of the acceleration graph. Some guidance has been offered regarding the relationship between acceleration and velocity, but there is no explicit consensus on the correct interpretation of the graph's sections.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of the need for additional information, such as initial speed, to accurately sketch the velocity graph. Participants are also discussing the accuracy of the acceleration graph and its implications for the motion described.

azn4lyf89
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I know that the area under an acceleration vs. time graph is the velocity, but how do I use that information to sketch a velocity vs. time graph. Is the area considered the slope for the velocity graph? Also how is it possible for a car to be slowing down during the first half of the motion? Attached is a rough sketch of what the acceleration vs. time graph looks like.
 

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so on the first thrid of the graph there is constant acceleration so what does this tell you about the velocity?? the middle third there is no acceleration which implies the velocity must be the same. and the last third there is decceleration which implies what about the velocity??
 
azn4lyf89 said:
I know that the area under an acceleration vs. time graph is the velocity, but how do I use that information to sketch a velocity vs. time graph.
You need additional information, such as the initial speed.

Note that in this graph, the acceleration increases to a maximum value, stays at that value, then decreases to zero. (Acceleration is only constant in the middle portion of the graph.) If this graph is accurate, and the car starts from rest, the speed is increasing at all times. Is that what you meant to describe?
 
RoryP said:
so on the first thrid of the graph there is constant acceleration so what does this tell you about the velocity?? the middle third there is no acceleration which implies the velocity must be the same. and the last third there is decceleration which implies what about the velocity??

Actually, your wrong. The first third of the graph is an increasing acceleration. The second third is a constant acceleration, and the last third is a decreasing acceleration.
 

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