What is represented by the slope in a velocity-time graph?

In a velocity-time graph, the slope represents acceleration. This is because the slope of a line on such a graph indicates how much the velocity (y-axis) changes over a certain period of time (x-axis).

To break it down further, acceleration is defined as the rate of change of velocity with respect to time. When you calculate the slope of a line on a velocity-time graph, you are effectively calculating this rate of change. A steep slope indicates a high rate of acceleration (a rapid change in velocity), while a gentle slope indicates a lower acceleration. If the slope is horizontal, it means that the velocity is constant, indicating zero acceleration.

Overall, understanding the relationship between the slope of a velocity-time graph and acceleration is fundamental in mechanics, as it helps in analyzing the motion of objects over time.