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Velocity–Time Graphs

Forces

Velocity–Time Graphs

To interpret velocity–time graphs and calculate acceleration from the gradient.

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What you will learn

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How velocity–time graphs show motion

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What a horizontal line means on the graph

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How gradient gives acceleration

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How area under the graph gives displacement

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How to recognise speeding up and slowing down

Explanation

Gradient on a velocity–time graph gives acceleration; a horizontal section means constant velocity. For a falling object, drag increases with speed until it balances weight, giving zero resultant force and terminal velocity. Opening a parachute increases drag, causing deceleration until a lower terminal velocity is reached. Terminal-velocity graph interpretation is a Separate Physics extension. Example: Find acceleration from 4 m/s to 16 m/s in 6 s. 2 m/s². Use clear labels. Justify your answer.

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