Understanding Motion Graphs

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What is a motion graph?
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A motion graph is a graphical representation of an object's movement, showing how its position or speed changes over time.
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What are the two main types of motion graphs?
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Position-time graphs and velocity-time graphs.
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In a position-time graph, what does the slope represent?
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The slope represents the object's velocity.
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How can you determine acceleration from a velocity-time graph?
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The slope of a velocity-time graph represents the object's acceleration.
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What does a flat line on a position-time graph indicate?
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A flat line indicates that the object is at rest or not changing its position over time.
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What does a steep slope on a position-time graph indicate?
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A steep slope indicates a higher velocity, meaning the object is moving faster.
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How do you interpret a curve on a position-time graph?
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A curve indicates changing velocity, meaning the object is accelerating or decelerating.
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What does a flat line on a velocity-time graph represent?
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A flat line indicates constant velocity.
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What kind of motion does a negative slope on a velocity-time graph represent?
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A negative slope indicates deceleration or motion in the opposite direction.
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What does the area under a velocity-time graph represent?
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The area under a velocity-time graph represents the displacement of the object.
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How does a positive slope on a velocity-time graph affect the motion of an object?
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A positive slope indicates the object is accelerating.
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Can motion graphs show non-linear motion, and if so, how?
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Yes, curved lines on either type of motion graph indicate non-linear motion such as changes in speed or direction.
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What might cause an upward curve on a position-time graph?
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An upward curve could result from accelerating motion, where the object is moving faster over time.
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On a velocity-time graph, what does a downward curve represent?
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A downward curve represents decreasing acceleration or deceleration.
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How can you tell if an object is returning to its starting point using a position-time graph?
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The object returns to its starting point if the position line moves back down to the horizontal axis (time = 0) after climbing upwards.
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