Chapter 4, Problem 17A

What does the slope of the curve on a velocity-versus-time graph represent?

To determine

The quantity represented by the slope of the curve on a velocity-versus time graph.

Answer to Problem 17A

Acceleration

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The acceleration acting on an object is given by,

  $\text{acceleration}=\frac{\text{change in velocity}}{\text{time taken}}$

The slope of the velocity versus time graph can be written as,

  $\begin{array}{c}m=\frac{\Delta y}{\Delta x}\\ =\frac{\Delta \text{velocity}}{\Delta \text{time}}\end{array}$

Using the above formula mentioned, it is basically the acceleration.

Conclusion:

Hence, the slope of a velocity versus time graph represents the acceleration.