Question detail

A car accelerates uniformly from rest to a velocity of 20 m/s over a time period of 5 seconds. Calculate the acceleration of the car Explain your answer using Velocity-time graphs and velocity-time graph.

Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.

At a glance

Question

Type

exam_style

Style

Topic

Forces and motion

Question

A car accelerates uniformly from rest to a velocity of 20 m/s over a time period of 5 seconds. Calculate the acceleration of the car Explain your answer using Velocity-time graphs and velocity-time graph.

Answer

4 m/s²

Explanation

A strong answer should address calculate acceleration from the gradient of a velocity-time graph directly. Use the context of Velocity-time graphs within Forces and motion, then state the relevant forces or motion reasoning with units where needed. The answer is correct when it names the key physics quantity, keeps speed and velocity distinct, and links the conclusion back to the approved learning objective.

Common mistake

Misunderstanding Gradient Calculation

Students often confuse the gradient of a velocity-time graph with the area under the graph, mistakenly thinking both represent acceleration.

Emphasize that the gradient of a velocity-time graph specifically represents acceleration, while the area under the graph represents distance travelled.

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