Velocity Time graphs and Displacements

AI Thread Summary
To determine the total displacement from a velocity-time graph, focus on the area under the curve, which represents displacement over time. The graph's y-axis indicates velocity, while the x-axis represents time, with negative values indicating direction. The line crossing the x-axis signifies a velocity of 0 m/s, marking a change in direction. Understanding the relationship between velocity and displacement is crucial, as the equation v = d/t can be applied. This type of problem is commonly encountered in physics classes, and additional resources are available for further clarification.
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Homework Statement


How do i figure out the TOTAL displacement of this graph
http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/7677/36947032we7.jpg

Homework Equations



I'm guessing A=1/2bh
and A = bh

The Attempt at a Solution



I've got no idea due to the line crossing the X axis
 
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ask yourself what velocities you're seeing. velocities include direction.

the Y - axis is telling you the velocity of the object, whereas the x-axis is telling you the time. you can tell the y-axis is velocity because of the negative values towards the bottom of the y axis. you can't see the negative values but they're there. remember the equation v = d/t :)
 
the line crossing the x-axis is simply the line that tells you the 0 point. it plays no significance unless your graphing line passes it. at the point that it passes that horizontal x-axis line, that would tell you your velocity is 0 m/s.
 
This problem is quite common in classrooms. The answer, along with the proper work, can be found at "www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yu_moia-oVI"[/URL].
 
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