What Shape is the Distance vs. Time Graph for a Falling Ball?

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SUMMARY

The Distance vs. Time graph for a falling ball is a curve, reflecting the constant acceleration due to gravity at 9.8 m/s². As the ball falls, the slope of the curve represents the changing velocity, which increases uniformly over time. A straight line would indicate constant velocity and zero acceleration, which is not the case in free fall. The graph resembles the second half of a projectile's trajectory when plotted from the height of release.

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  • Understanding of basic physics concepts such as acceleration and velocity
  • Familiarity with graphing techniques in physics
  • Knowledge of the equations of motion under constant acceleration
  • Basic understanding of projectile motion
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  • Study the equations of motion for uniformly accelerated motion
  • Learn how to derive and interpret Distance vs. Time graphs
  • Explore the concept of free fall and its implications in physics
  • Investigate the relationship between velocity, acceleration, and graphical representation
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J.live
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Homework Statement


What would be the shape of Distance vs Time Graph when a ball is falling?
Please explain. Thanks you



The Attempt at a Solution



I think it will be a curve since the acceleration is constant (9.8 m/s^2) . the slope under the curve will be velocity which will change uniformly overtime? It can't be a straight line since that will make the velocity constant and acceleration zero? I am not sure , need to verify :/
 
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J.live said:

Homework Statement


What would be the shape of Distance vs Time Graph when a ball is falling?
Please explain. Thanks you



The Attempt at a Solution



I think it will be a curve since the acceleration is constant (9.8 m/s^2) . the slope under the curve will be velocity which will change uniformly overtime? It can't be a straight line since that will make the velocity constant and acceleration zero? I am not sure , need to verify :/

It will curve upward if you plot the distance increasing on the y axis. If you plot it starting at the height from which it was dropped, it will look like the second half of the trajectory of a cannonball (where the velocity along the ground functions just like time on the x axis).
 

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