Physics · Grades 9–12
Velocity–time graphs: slope and area · Revision sheet
Separate acceleration from displacement when interpreting a graph.
Learn the idea
Slope
The slope of velocity against time gives acceleration, not displacement.
Signed area
Area between a velocity curve and the time axis gives displacement. Regions below the axis contribute negatively.
Speed and direction
Negative velocity identifies a direction. A negative acceleration may slow or speed an object depending on velocity.
Piecewise motion
Split a graph into rectangles and triangles when their areas can be found exactly.
Explain without looking
- A cart travels at +4 m/s for 3 s and −2 m/s for 2 s. Find net displacement.
- Does a graph crossing v = 0 guarantee zero acceleration there?
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.