Linear Motion

Question 1

Define linear motion and give an example

Answer 1

Movement of a body in a straight or curved line, where all parts move the same distance, in the same direction over the same time
Skeleton bob at top speed

Question 2

Define direct force

Answer 2

A force applied through the center of mass resulting in linear motion

Question 3

Define centre of mass

Answer 3

The point at which a body is balanced in all directions. The point from which weight appears to act

Question 4

Define distance

Answer 4

The total length covered from start to finish positions (m)

Question 5

Define displacement

Answer 5

The shortest straight-line route from start to finish positions (m)

Question 6

Define speed and give the calculation

Answer 6

The rate of change in distance (m/s)
Speed = distance ÷ time taken

Question 7

Define and give the calculation for velocity

Answer 7

The rate of change in displacement (m/s)
Speed = displacement ÷ time taken

Question 8

Define acceleration/deceleration and give the calculation

Answer 8

The rate of change in velocity (m/s/s)
(Final velocity - initial velocity) ÷ time taken

Question 9

What are distance/time graphs

Answer 9

A visual representation of the distance travelled plotted along the time taken

Question 10

How do you calculate gradient

Answer 10

Gradient = change in y axis ÷ change in x axis

Question 11

What are speed time graphs

Answer 11

A visual representation of the speed of motion plotted against the time taken

Question 12

What are velocity time graphs

Answer 12

A visual representation of the velocity of motion plotted against the time taken