Section 2.6 Motion Diagrams
Note 2.6.1. Dr. Paws on the Run.
Representation 2.6.2. Motion Diagram.
A motion diagram is a physical representation in which an object is represented at different instants in time that are separated by equal time intervals. For each instant, you should draw a vector representing the object’s position.
You will encounter many different representations in physics. In fact, you have already seen several other representations, including numerical values, symbolic equations, and even verbal descriptions! Diagrams, graphs, and other visual representations are especially common and useful, as they give you alternative ways to display information in a way that is often compact, simple, and useful.
Exercises Activities: Practice Drawing a Motion Diagram
Watch the video below of an instructor rolling a ball across the floor.
1.
Describe the motion of the ball between the green markers in words. Use complete sentences. Did you make any assumptions or idealizations about the ball’s motion?
Tip.
When you make an assumption or idealization, remember to follow the steps in Figure 2.5.1.
2.
Draw a motion diagram for the ball when it is between the green markers.
Tip.
Make sure to choose a coordinate system with an origin!
