A velocity-time graph, also known as a speed-time graph, is a graphical representation that shows the relationship between an object's velocity (or speed) and time. It is commonly used in physics to analyze the motion of an object and gain insights into its acceleration and displacement.
In a velocity-time graph, the horizontal axis represents time, usually measured in seconds, while the vertical axis represents velocity or speed, typically measured in meters per second (m/s) or kilometers per hour (km/h). The graph consists of a line or curve that represents the changing velocity of the object over time.
The slope of the line or curve on the graph represents the object's acceleration. A steeper slope indicates a higher acceleration, while a flatter slope suggests a lower acceleration. A horizontal line indicates a constant velocity, as there is no change in speed over time. A positively sloped line indicates positive acceleration, which means the object is speeding up, while a negatively sloped line represents negative acceleration or deceleration, indicating the object is slowing down.
By analyzing the shape and characteristics of the velocity-time graph, one can determine various aspects of an object's motion, such as its initial velocity, final velocity, acceleration, and displacement.