​Graphs of motion are crucial for physicists to determine the position and speed of an object. Unlike maps and speedometers which are useful for non-physicists, graphs provide a detailed analysis of an object's movement over time. Motion seems to be essential in our lives as well as influences so many of our activities.

​So why are motion graphs important?

​A quick review before motion graphs are covered.......

Motion

Position is relative to an origin.
Example: "Ken is behind Barbie and Barbie is behind Ken."

Position is not the same as distance. It just describes "where"

Speed and Velocity

• Speed = Distance/Time

• When you divide the total distance of a trip by time you get the average speed

• Distance and displacement are not the same. Distance is covered ground and displacement is moving from a place or position.

• Instantaneous Speed is the actual speed at a given moment.

Graphs of Motion

Constant speed means the speed stays the same

Constant speed will look different on a position vs. time graph and a speed vs. time graph

Motion Graphs