Physics · Grades 7–10
Reading position–time information
Interpret slopes without confusing the graph with a picture of a path.
Learn the idea
Axes
A position–time graph records position against time. The vertical axis is not necessarily height.
Slope
The slope represents signed velocity. A steeper straight segment indicates greater speed on that axis.
Horizontal segment
Constant position means zero velocity on the chosen axis during the segment.
Curved segment
A changing slope indicates changing velocity. The curve is not automatically the shape of the physical route.
Worked examples
Position is 2 m at 1 s and 14 m at 5 s. Find average velocity.
The slope is (14 − 2)/(5 − 1) = 3 m/s.
3 m/s
A horizontal segment on a position–time graph means what?
A horizontal graph segment has zero change in position over time.
Position remains constant.
Check your understanding
A straight position–time segment slopes downward. What is negative?
- Elapsed time
- Mass
- Velocity on the chosen axis
A constant velocity of 4 m/s lasts 3 s. Find displacement.
Why should a position–time graph not be treated as a map of the object's route?
Answers and marking notes
Answers and marking notes
- Velocity on the chosen axis
A negative position change over positive elapsed time gives negative velocity.
- 12 m
Displacement equals velocity × time: 4 × 3 = 12 m.
- Its horizontal axis is time, not horizontal location.
Credit correct axis meanings.
Further reading and review references
These are reference links, not copied exercises, institutional endorsement or proof of independent review.
Independent educational review required. Grade bands are approximate; these are not officially aligned curricula.