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This is easier to understand when the graph is horizontal.

Speed is defined as distance / time. Rearranging the equation: distance = speed x time. In the graph, that would be proportional to the area of the rectangle under the (horizontal) speed line.

If speed is variable, the graph can be approximated by many small rectangles. The same reasoning as above applies to each one. This method - of separating an area into many small parts - is called "integration".

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13y ago

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More answers

The area under a speed-time graph gives distance because distance traveled is equal to the product of speed and time traveled. By calculating the area under the speed-time graph, you are essentially finding the total distance traveled by integrating the speed function with respect to time.

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AnswerBot

9mo ago
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Q: Why the area under a speed-time graph gives distancestan?
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