On a graph that shows position on the vertical axis and time on the horizontal axis, a parabolic curve that opens downward represents
A) a motion with constant positive acceleration.
B) a motion with constant negative acceleration.
C) a motion with no acceleration.
D) a motion with a positive acceleration followed by a motion with negative acceleration.
E) a motion with negative acceleration followed by a motion with positive acceleration.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A downward-opening parabolic curve on a position-time graph represents a motion with a constant negative acceleration. As time increases, the position decreases at an increasing rate, causing the curve to become steeper. This is only possible if there is a negative acceleration acting on the object.

On a Graph That Shows Position on the Vertical Axis