Question

The diagram shows a motion map for a train.


Which statement is supported by the motion map?

The train traveled south and then north.
The train moved at a velocity of 75 mph north.
The train had a greater velocity when it moved away from the origin.
The train stopped for 3 seconds.

Answer 1

the train stopped for 3 seconds 

Answer 2

Answer: The train stopped for 3 seconds.

Explanation:

The motion map represents the motion of the train. The horizontal direction represents the distance of the train from the origin, the arrows represent the motions of the train (and the lenght of the arrow represents how much it travels in one second), and each black dot corresponds to 1 second in time. By considering this information, we can better describe the motion of the train:

- The train moves for 3 seconds in a direction away from the origin

- The train stopped for 3 seconds (this corresponds to the 3 vertical dots)

The train moves for 2 seconds in a direction toward the origin

By looking at the different options, we see that the only one which is correct is the last one, The train stopped for 3 seconds.