Distance-time graphs

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Distance-time graphs show how far an object travels over a certain period of time.

The x-axis always represents time in seconds (s).
The y-axis represents distance in metres (m).

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Characteristics of Distance-Time Graphs Summary.

Steeper line = faster speed
Flat line = stationary object (gradient is 0)
Steepening curve = acceleration
Flattening curve = deceleration

Gradient (Slope)

The gradient of the line on a distance-time graph tells us the speed of the object. The steeper the line, the faster the object is moving.

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To calculate the gradient and find the speed at different points:

Gradient= \frac{ΔD}{ΔT}

Where:

ΔD is the change in distance,
ΔT is the change in time. The delta symbol (Δ) means change, so in this case, it's the change in distance divided by the change in time.

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