Question
Physics Question on Motion in a straight line
Figure 2.11shows the x-t plot of one dimensional motion of a particle. Is it correct to say from the graph that the particle moves in a straight line for t < 0 and on a parabolic path for t >0 ? If not, suggest a suitable physical context for this graph.
Figure 2.11
Answer
No.The x-t graph of a particle moving in a straight line for t < 0 and on a parabolic path for t > 0 cannot be shown as the given graph. This is because, the given particle does not follow the trajectory of path followed by the particle as t = 0, x = 0. A physical situation that resembles the above graph is of a freely falling body held for some time at a height.