AQA 7408 A Level Physics · Mechanics and Materials
Motion, SUVAT and Projectiles
Connect graph gradients and areas to physical quantities, then separate horizontal and vertical projectile motion.
Reading motion graphs
The gradient of a displacement–time graph is velocity. The gradient of a velocity–time graph is acceleration, and its signed area is displacement. State the interval and signs when interpreting a graph.
Choosing a SUVAT equation
List s, u, v, a and t with a declared positive direction. Use the equation that omits the quantity you neither know nor need. These equations require constant acceleration; they are not a universal motion formula set.
Projectile components
With negligible drag, horizontal velocity is constant while vertical acceleration is g downward. The same time connects the two components. At the top, vertical velocity is zero but horizontal velocity is not.