Distance – Time Graphs

The distance travelled is plotted on the y - axis,
the time period is plotted on the x – axis.

Example

This graph shows the progress made by a sea kayaking
group.

Each hour on the graph is split into three sections,
each 20 minutes long.

The group starts the trip at 11.00 hrs.
By midday, the group has travelled 5 km.

They then slow down their pace and paddle until 13.20 hrs.
They have now travelled 7 km and decide to stop for lunch.

The group restarts at  14.20 hrs and catch a current
which enables them to cover 3km in 20 minutes.

The gradient of the distinct parts of the journey
gives the average speed for that part of the journey.

© Alexander Forrest