Real-context graphs and kinematics
Edexcel 1MA1 routinely tests interpretation of distance-time and velocity-time graphs on Papers 2F/2H and 3F/3H. Foundation tier sticks to constant-speed sections; Higher tier extends into curved sections, tangents, and area-under-curve estimates.
Distance-time graphs
The horizontal axis is time, the vertical axis is distance from a starting point.
- A straight line means constant speed; gradient = speed.
- A horizontal line means stationary (no change in distance).
- A line returning to the x-axis means returning to the start.
Velocity-time graphs
Time on the horizontal axis, velocity on the vertical axis.
- Gradient = acceleration.
- Area under the graph = distance travelled.
- A horizontal line means constant velocity (zero acceleration).
Conversion graphs
Used for converting one quantity into another (e.g. £ to €). Read off by drawing a vertical line up from the input value to the line, then horizontal to the answer axis.
Filling-container graphs
Depth d against time t when filling at a constant rate. Wider container = slower depth increase = shallower gradient.
Common Edexcel mark-scheme phrasing
- M1 for picking two valid coordinates on the segment.
- A1 for the gradient with correct units.
- B1 for the contextual interpretation (e.g. "stationary for 30 minutes").
- M1 for area decomposition (rectangle, triangle, trapezium) on a velocity-time graph.
⚠Common mistakes— Common errors
- Reading off the y-axis without using the scale (each square is not always 1 unit).
- Confusing distance-time with velocity-time (a horizontal line means stationary on a d-t graph but constant velocity on a v-t graph).
- Forgetting units when stating speed or acceleration.
- Computing total distance from a v-t graph without finding the area properly.
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