Uniform and Non-Uniform Velocity
Constant speed and constant velocity are not the same thing, and neither is the same as constant acceleration. This simulation contrasts objects moving uniformly with objects whose velocity changes, using the graphs to make the distinction precise.
How to use this simulation
- Compare uniform and non-uniform motion side by side
- Change the acceleration profile
- Display the position and velocity graphs together
What to look for
- Uniform velocity gives a straight position graph with a constant gradient
- Non-uniform velocity curves the position graph
- Changing direction alone is enough to make velocity non-uniform
The physics behind it
Uniform velocity means both the speed and the direction stay fixed, which requires zero net force and produces a straight-line position–time graph. Non-uniform velocity means either is changing, so there must be a net force acting. An object rounding a bend at steady speed has uniform speed but non-uniform velocity.