Position - Time Graph

The different positions and corresponding times can be plotted on a graph. Such a curve is known as position-time curve. Generally, the time is represented along x-axis whereas the position of the body is represented along y-axis.

Position-Time Graph for Uniform Motion

A motion in which the velocity of the moving object is constant is known as uniform motion. Its position-time graph is a straight line inclined to the time axis.

When a moving object covers equal distances in equal intervals of time, it is in uniform motion.

Position-Time Graph for Non-Uniform Motion

When the distances covered in equal intervals of time are not equal, such a motion is said to be non-uniform motion. If the distances covered in successive intervals are increasing, the motion is said to be accelerated motion.

The position-time graph of accelerated motion is a continuous curve. Hence, the velocity of the body changes continuously.

Interpretation of Position - Time Graph

If it is a straight line parallel to the time axis, you can say that the body is at rest. The straight line is inclined to the time axis shows that the motion is uniform. A continuous curve implies continuously changing velocity.

The slope of the straight line of position - time graph gives the average velocity of the object in motion. Greater the value of the slope (∆x/∆t) of the straight line position - time graph, more will be the average velocity.