Velocity-Time Graph: Positive & Negative

Thread starter Paul_dirac
Start date Aug 3, 2019
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In summary, a velocity-time graph is a graphical representation of an object's velocity over a period of time. A positive velocity-time graph indicates that the object is moving in the positive direction and increasing its velocity over time, with a steeper slope indicating greater acceleration. A negative slope on a velocity-time graph means the object is moving in the negative direction and decreasing its velocity over time. The acceleration can be calculated by finding the slope of the graph, typically measured in meters per second squared. A velocity-time graph can have both positive and negative values, representing the direction of the object's velocity at a given point in time.

Aug 3, 2019

Paul_dirac

Homework Statement: Why velocity in graph 1 is positive and in graph 2 is negative?

Relevant Equations: a=dv/dt

Why velocity in graph 1 is positive and in graph 2 is negative?

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Aug 3, 2019

Chestermiller

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Who says it's negative on graph 2?

Aug 6, 2019

sojsail

Could it be that you intended to ask about acceleration?

Aug 6, 2019

kuruman

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sojsail said:

Could it be that you intended to ask about acceleration?

I don't think so. The acceleration is negative in all three plots.

1. What is a velocity-time graph?

A velocity-time graph is a visual representation of an object's velocity over a period of time. It shows how the velocity of an object changes over time, with time on the x-axis and velocity on the y-axis.

2. How do you interpret a positive velocity-time graph?

A positive velocity-time graph shows that the object is moving in the positive direction with a constant or increasing velocity. The steeper the slope of the graph, the greater the object's velocity.

3. What does a negative slope on a velocity-time graph indicate?

A negative slope on a velocity-time graph indicates that the object is moving in the negative direction, or slowing down. The steeper the slope, the greater the object's deceleration.

4. Can the velocity-time graph tell us anything about an object's acceleration?

Yes, the velocity-time graph can show an object's acceleration by looking at the slope of the line. A steeper slope indicates a greater acceleration, while a flatter slope indicates a constant velocity.

5. How does a velocity-time graph differ from a position-time graph?

A velocity-time graph shows the relationship between an object's velocity and time, while a position-time graph shows the relationship between an object's position and time. A velocity-time graph can be used to calculate an object's position, and a position-time graph can be used to calculate an object's velocity.