Motion graphsEdexcel International A Level Maths: Mind map

Exam questions on Motion graphs

1. A sprinter's motion along a straight track is modelled by a velocity–time graph made of three straight-line sections. From t = 0 to t = 4 s, the velocity increases uniformly from 0 to 12 m s⁻¹. From t = 4 s to t = 10 s the velocity is constant at 12 m s⁻¹. From t = 10 s to t = 16 s the velocity decreases uniformly from 12 m s⁻¹ to 0.
   Find the average speed of the sprinter over the 16 s.2 marks
2. A cyclist rides along a straight road. Her displacement–time graph from the start point consists of three straight-line sections: from t = 0 to t = 5 s the displacement increases uniformly from 0 to 20 m; from t = 5 s to t = 8 s the displacement stays at 20 m; from t = 8 s to t = 14 s the displacement decreases uniformly from 20 m to 0.
   Find the total distance the cyclist has travelled by t = 14 s, and her displacement from the start at that time.2 marks
3. A lift starts from rest at the ground floor. Its acceleration–time graph consists of three horizontal sections: an acceleration of 1.5 m s⁻² from t = 0 to t = 4 s, no acceleration from t = 4 s to t = 10 s, and an acceleration of −2 m s⁻² from t = 10 s to t = 13 s.
   Find the greatest speed of the lift, and show that the lift is at rest at t = 13 s.3 marks