Question detail
In a velocity-time graph, what does a negative gradient represent?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Forces and motion
Question
- A. Constant velocity.
- B. Acceleration.
- C. Deceleration or acceleration in the opposite direction.
- D. Stationary motion.
Answer
Deceleration or acceleration in the opposite direction.
Explanation
A negative gradient in a velocity-time graph indicates that the velocity is decreasing, which is known as deceleration or acceleration in the opposite direction.
Common mistake
Confusing Graph Types
Students often confuse distance-time graphs with velocity-time graphs, leading to incorrect interpretations of motion.
To fix this, students should practice identifying key features of each graph type, such as recognizing that distance-time graphs show how far an object has traveled over time, while velocity-time graphs show how the object's velocity changes over time.
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