Graphing Motion

    Quite often we are asked to make observations and describe what we have seen. We all have a unique way of expressing ourselves. Some prefer to talk, some to write, some to draw pictures,... or any number of alternatives. In this activity you will first observe the animation of the two trucks shown and then describe what you have seen in words. When you have completed question #1 click on the buttons below to view the graphs of Distance vs. Time, Velocity vs. Time, and Acceleration vs. Time. Answer questions #2 - #4.

 

Question #1 - Click on the play button and observe the motion of each truck. You may use the pause, forward (>>), and back (<<) keys to compare at specific points in time. Describe the motion of each.

 

 

Question #2 - Distance vs Time Graph

Which line on the graph represents the green truck, ... the red truck? Give your reasoning. 


 

 

Question #3 - Velocity vs Time Graph

Which line on the graph represents the green truck, ... the red truck? Give your reasoning. 


 

 

Question #4 - Acceleration vs Time Graph

Which line on the graph represents the green truck, ... the red truck? Give your reasoning.