A student sketches the following velocity–time graph for a scooter: • From to : a…

PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials

Problem

A student sketches the following velocity–time graph for a scooter: • From t=0 st = 0\,\text{s} to t=4 st = 4\,\text{s}: a horizontal line at 5 m/s5\,\text{m/s}. • At t=4 st = 4\,\text{s}: an abrupt vertical jump to 15 m/s15\,\text{m/s}. • From t=4 st = 4\,\text{s} to t=8 st = 8\,\text{s}: a horizontal line at 15 m/s15\,\text{m/s}. The student claims that this represents “uniform acceleration for 4 s followed by uniform motion.” (a) Identify the error in the graph with respect to uniform acceleration. (b) Describe how the correct velocity–time graph should be drawn for this motion.

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