Sam and Joe are on their bikes - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 4 - 2014 - Paper 1

To determine the distance Sam traveled during the 15 seconds, we need to analyze the velocity/time graph provided.

1. Establish the Conditions: From the graph, Sam rides at a constant velocity of 10 m/s after Joe waits for 4 seconds. So, for the first 4 seconds, Sam is moving at this velocity.

2. Calculate Distance for First 4 seconds: The distance Sam travels in this time can be calculated using the formula:

   $ext{Distance} = ext{Velocity} imes ext{Time}$

   For the first 4 seconds:

   $ext{Distance} = 10 ext{ m/s} imes 4 ext{ s} = 40 ext{ m}$

3. Time Remaining: After the first 4 seconds, there are another 11 seconds to consider (15 s - 4 s).

4. Assuming Constant Velocity: Since Sam continues to travel at 10 m/s until the 15 seconds are complete:

   For the remaining 11 seconds:

   $ext{Distance} = 10 ext{ m/s} imes 11 ext{ s} = 110 ext{ m}$

5. Total Distance: Add the distances from both segments:

   $ext{Total Distance} = 40 ext{ m} + 110 ext{ m} = 150 ext{ m}$

Hence, the distance Sam traveled during the 15 seconds is 150 m, which corresponds to answer choice D.