GCSE · Physics · AQA · Spec 8463
Distance–time graphs
Reading a distance–time graph
Use the gradient tools to extract speed from each section of the journey.
Predict, then check
Look at each section description — commit to an answer before you reveal.
A distance–time graph has three sections: (1) a steep straight line, (2) a horizontal flat section, (3) a shallower straight line. Which section shows the object moving at its FASTEST speed?
How to find speed from a distance–time graph
Follow every step in order — this is the method examiners expect to see written down.
- Higher tier: curved sectionIf the section is curved, the speed is changing. To find the speed at one specific instant, draw a straight line that just touches the curve at that point without crossing it, then calculate its gradient using the same rise ÷ run method.
Relationship matrix
Tap any cell to reveal it. Tap a column header to read one property down every item.
Each cell hides a short answer and the reason behind it. Predict before you tap.
Process · Closed loop
Higher tier: Finding instantaneous speed from a curve
Use this repeatable cycle whenever the distance–time graph is curved.
Stage 01
Locate the point
Find the exact point on the curve where you need the instantaneous speed. Mark it clearly with a dot.
AQA Paper 2 — exam technique
AQA mark-scheme practice
Does this student answer contain the phrases that unlock marks?
Question
Describe the motion shown by the distance–time graph. Section A: steep straight line for 10 s. Section B: horizontal line for 5 s. Section C: shallower straight line for 10 s.
Student answer
In section A the object moves at constant speed. In section B the object is stationary. In section C the object moves at constant speed but more slowly than in section A.
Equations you need
Taken directly from the exam-board specification.
v = speed (m/s) · s = distance (m) · t = time (s)
Learn it — you must recall this in the exam
WHAT YOU'VE LEARNED
A quick recap of today's lesson.
How to read gradient as speed — and spot acceleration from a curve.
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