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What is a distance versus time graph?

Updated: 4/28/2022
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8y ago

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A graph that shows how an object has moved relative to the starting point at a given time. The gradient of the graph at any point gives the velocity of the object at that time.

Normally it is assumed that the object is moving in one dimensions (along a line), in which case the line can head back towards zero (the object is heading back towards its starting point) and the graph gives the location of the object along the line - every distance is a unique point along the line.

It can also show total distance moved, in which case the line along which the object is travelling is embedded in a higher dimension (eg a 2-dimensional plane, or the 3-dimensional space we live in) and is able to wiggle about and so go back to the starting point (in that higher dimension) at more than one point on the line; unless the object "reverses", the line is unlikely to head back towards zero - such a graph could be used to show total distance travelled in driving a vehicle from one point to another (eg when considering how far the tyres of a vehicle have travelled which ignores whether the wheels are turning forwards or backwards). In this case the gradient would be considered as the speed of the object (as the direction [in the higher space] is unknown).

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8y ago
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Q: What is a distance versus time graph?
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