Distance-time graphs
Time goes on the x-axis. Distance goes on the y-axis.
| What you see | What it means |
|---|---|
| Flat (horizontal) line | Not moving |
| Straight sloping line | Constant speed |
| Steeper line | Faster |
| Curve getting steeper | Speeding up (accelerating) |
| Curve getting flatter | Slowing down |
Speed-time (velocity-time) graphs
Now speed goes on the y-axis. This changes everything, so always check the y-axis label first.
Acceleration-time graphs
Acceleration goes on the y-axis.
- A flat line above zero means constant acceleration.
- A flat line on zero means constant velocity (no acceleration).
- A flat line below zero means constant deceleration.
- Area under an acceleration-time graph = change in velocity.
Motion graphs
Distance-time
- Gradient = speed
- Flat = stopped
- Curve = changing speed
Speed-time
- Gradient = acceleration
- Area = distance
- Flat = constant speed
Acceleration-time
- Area = change in velocity
- Flat on zero = constant velocity
Tips
- Read the y-axis first
- Units on axes
Quick summary
- Distance-time: gradient = speed. Flat = stopped. Steeper = faster.
- Speed-time: gradient = acceleration. Area under = distance. Flat = steady speed.
- Acceleration-time: area under = change in velocity.
- Always read the y-axis label before you read the shape.
- Area of a triangle = . Area of a rectangle = base × height.
Quiz
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