Rectilinear Motion: Uniform Velocity
Displacement, velocity, and time relationships for one-dimensional straight-line motion at constant velocity (s = u × t), signed conventions, and kinematic graphing.
Marking a lesson complete represents finishing your study of the topic; it does not denote tested mastery.
Learning Objectives
- Define position, displacement, speed, and velocity rigorously in one dimension.
- Apply s = u × t with consistent directional signs to solve for unknown quantities.
- Interpret displacement-time and velocity-time graphs for uniform velocity motion.
Core Theory & Concepts
Uniform rectilinear motion represents the most fundamental form of motion in mechanics: an object translating along a single straight axis with zero acceleration, covering equal displacements in equal intervals of time.
Displacement vs Distance
Distance is a scalar reflecting total path length, while displacement (s) is a signed vector measuring net change in position from start to destination.
Uniform Velocity Equation
When velocity is invariant over duration t, acceleration is zero: s = u × t.
Common Misconceptions
Confusing negative velocity with deceleration or slowing down.
Syllabus Topic Outline
- 1Displacement as a signed vector quantity
- 2Uniform velocity definition and the fundamental equation s = u × t
- 3Displacement-time graphs: gradient as velocity
- 4Velocity-time graphs: area under curve as displacement
- 5Interactive computer simulation and physical rule verification
Interactive Activity — Uniform Motion Simulation
Visualize constant-velocity motion along a straight track