Syllabus Edition

First teaching 2020

Last exams 2024

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Area under a Velocity-Time Graph (CIE AS Physics)

Revision Note

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Katie M

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Area under a Velocity-Time Graph

  • Velocity-time graphs show the speed and direction of an object in motion over a specific period of time
  • The area under a velocity-time graph is equal to the displacement of a moving object

displacement = area under a velocity-time graph

Worked example

The velocity-time graph of a vehicle travelling with uniform acceleration is shown in the diagram below.v-t Area Worked Example (1), downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notesCalculate the displacement of the vehicle at 40 s.

v-t Area Worked Example (2), downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

Examiner Tip

Always check the values given on the y-axis of a motion graph - students often confuse displacement-time graphs and velocity-time graphs.The area under the graph can often be broken down into triangles, squares and rectangles, so make sure you are comfortable with calculating area!

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Katie M

Author: Katie M

Expertise: Physics

Katie has always been passionate about the sciences, and completed a degree in Astrophysics at Sheffield University. She decided that she wanted to inspire other young people, so moved to Bristol to complete a PGCE in Secondary Science. She particularly loves creating fun and absorbing materials to help students achieve their exam potential.