Physics A-Level
Sign and direction
What Sign and direction means in Physics A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Sign and direction
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Sign and direction in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
Area below the time axis counts as negative displacement for velocity–time graphs, and speed–time graphs give distance because direction is lost.
Topics that use Sign and direction
- Kinematics (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Area under graphs
- Displacement
- Instantaneous versus average velocity
- Motion representation
- Velocity
- Average speed
- Constant and changing velocity
- Direction from sign
Using Sign and direction in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
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