Difficulty: Easy

Average Score: 81%

Look at the distance vs. time graph of an object in motion.

Which statement describes the motion of the object for the first 10 seconds?

Diagram for question

Rationale

The object is accelerating.

During the first 10 seconds, the object is experiencing an increase in velocity, indicating that it is accelerating. This means that the speed of the object is changing over time, which is a direct definition of acceleration.

A (The object is moving at a constant speed.) YOUR ANSWER

If the object were moving at a constant speed, its velocity would remain unchanged, resulting in no acceleration. However, since the question specifies that the object is accelerating, this choice is incorrect.

B (The object is doubling its speed every two seconds.) YOUR ANSWER

While this option suggests a specific pattern of acceleration, it does not accurately describe the general condition of acceleration, which merely indicates any increase in speed. Doubling speed implies a specific type of acceleration (exponential), which is not stated in the question.

C (The object is increasing its height.) YOUR ANSWER

This statement refers to vertical motion rather than the object's speed. While an object can be increasing in height and still be accelerating, the question focuses on the object's speed rather than its vertical position; thus, this choice does not fully capture the essence of acceleration.

D (The object is accelerating.) CORRECT

This statement correctly identifies the condition of the object in the first 10 seconds as it experiences an increase in speed, which is the fundamental definition of acceleration.

Conclusion

Acceleration is characterized by a change in velocity over time, which is precisely what is happening to the object in the first 10 seconds. The other options either misinterpret the nature of motion or describe it incorrectly. Understanding acceleration is crucial in analyzing motion in various contexts, such as in physics and engineering.

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