Question

The velocity-time graph of a train traveling between two stations is plotted below:


Find the train's acceleration (in $\text{m}{\text{s}}^{-2}$) in each of the time intervals OX, XY, and YZ respectively.

• A. $-2,1,4$
• B. $2,1,-4$
• C. $-2,0,4$
• D. $2,0,-4$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $2,0,-4$

Since the velocity-time graph is a straight line in the given intervals, we can conclude that the acceleration is constant in each of these intervals.
So, the acceleration $=\frac{\text{Final velocity}-\text{Initial velocity}}{\text{Time}}$

Acceleration in OX $=\frac{12-0}{6}=+2\text{m}{\text{s}}^{-2}$

Acceleration in XY $=\frac{12-12}{12}=0\text{m}{\text{s}}^{-2}$

Acceleration in YZ $=\frac{0-12}{3}=-4\text{m}{\text{s}}^{-2}$