Physics A-Level
Sign conventions in one dimension
What Sign conventions in one dimension means in Physics A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Sign conventions in one dimension
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Sign conventions in one dimension 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 represents negative impulse, reducing momentum in the chosen positive direction, so those areas are subtracted.
Topics that use Sign conventions in one dimension
- Newton’s laws of motion (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Action–reaction pairs
- Area under a graph
- Change in momentum and direction
- Force–time graphs
- Resultant force and motion
- Safety applications of impulse
- Constant-mass reduction to F = ma
- Force as a rate of change
Using Sign conventions in one dimension 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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