Distance-time graphs for accelerating objects - Higher
If the speed of an object changes, it will be The rate of change of velocity is measured in metres per second squared. Acceleration = change of velocity ÷ time taken. or decelerating.
This can be shown as a curved line on a distance-time graph.
The table shows what each section of the graph represents:
| Section of graph | Gradient | Speed |
| A | Increasing | Increasing |
| B | Constant | Constant |
| C | Decreasing | Decreasing |
| D | Zero | Stationary (at rest) |
| Section of graph | A |
|---|---|
| Gradient | Increasing |
| Speed | Increasing |
| Section of graph | B |
|---|---|
| Gradient | Constant |
| Speed | Constant |
| Section of graph | C |
|---|---|
| Gradient | Decreasing |
| Speed | Decreasing |
| Section of graph | D |
|---|---|
| Gradient | Zero |
| Speed | Stationary (at rest) |