AHMED SALAMAIGCSE PHYSICS · ACCELERATION LAB
Acceleration · Graphs · Free fall

Measure how
velocity changes.

Change initial velocity, final velocity and time. Then connect the calculation to motion, graph gradient, drag and terminal velocity.

Investigation 1

Calculate and observe acceleration

Use acceleration = change in velocity ÷ time and interpret negative acceleration correctly.
Investigation 2

Measure gradient on a speed–time graph

Select two graph points and calculate acceleration from rise ÷ run.
Graph pattern

Select two plotted points to construct a gradient triangle.

Investigation 3

Compare free fall with resistive forces

Describe falling in a uniform gravitational field, with and without drag, including terminal velocity.
Time0.0 s
Vacuum velocity0.0 m/s
Resisted velocity0.0 m/s
Resisted acceleration9.8 m/s²
Drop comparison

Vacuum · no drag

Air · drag increases

Assessment

Check your learning

Answer all questions before revealing explanations.

Learning objectives

  1. Define and calculate acceleration from change in velocity per unit time.
  2. Recognise constant, zero and changing acceleration on speed–time graphs.
  3. Calculate acceleration from graph gradient.
  4. Use negative acceleration correctly.
  5. Describe free fall in a uniform gravitational field.
  6. Explain drag, resultant force and terminal velocity.