Speed and Travel Graphs summary

Key learning points

• Distance–time: gradient = speed; horizontal = stationary.
• Speed–time: gradient = acceleration; area under graph = distance.
• Average speed = total distance ÷ total time (not the mean of speeds).

Worked example 1 — Average speed

$120\,\mathrm{km}$ in $2.5\,\mathrm{h}$. Average speed?

Working

Total distance ÷ total time.

Worked example 2 — Distance-time gradient

Rises $30\,\mathrm{km}$ in $0.5\,\mathrm{h}$. Speed?

Working

Gradient = speed.

Worked example 3 — Area under speed-time

Speed $20\,\mathrm{m/s}$ for $8\,\mathrm{s}$. Distance?

Working

Area = distance.

Scaffolded Learning Sheet and answers (PDFs)

This page is a short, searchable overview for revision and search engines. Use the Scaffolded Learning Sheet first, then the Answers PDF for a full written solution. The printable PDFs remain the main classroom resource.