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The slope on a distance-time graph represents the speed of an object.
The velocity of an object is its speed in a particular direction. The slope on a velocity-time graph represents the acceleration of an object. The distance travelled is equal to the area under a velocity-time graph.
Speed, distance and time
You should recall from your Key Stage 3 studies how to calculate the speed of an object from the distance travelled and the time taken.
The equation
When an object moves in a straight line at a steady speed, you can calculate its speed if you know how far it travels and how long it takes. This equation shows the relationship between speed, distance travelled and time taken:
- For example, a car travels 300 metres in 20 seconds.
- Its speed is 300 รท 20 = 15m/s.
Check your understanding of this topic by having a go at this activity.
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