NEET2026PhysicsChapterActual
The position-time ( x-t ) graph of a particle moving along a straight line is shown in the figure. The graph is divided into three distinct segments: OP, PQ, and QR. Which segment of the graph represents motion with negative acceleration?
Options
- ASegment OP
- BSegment PQ
- CSegment QR
- DBoth segments OP and QR
Correct answer
C. Segment QR
Step-by-step solution
The slope of the position-time ( x-t ) graph represents the velocity of the particle, v = dx dt . The rate of change of this slope represents the acceleration, a = d^2x dt^2 . In segment OP, the curve is concave upwards, indicating that the slope (velocity) is increasing. Hence, the acceleration is positive ( a > 0 ). In segment PQ, the graph is a straight line, indicating a constant slope (velocity). Hence, the acceleration is zero ( a = 0 ). In segment QR, the curve is concave downwards, indicating that the slope