Explore the Kinematics Graph Matcher
Drag a runner so its position-time graph matches the target line, then get a score. Free, no signup, runs in your browser.
- Free to use
- No signup
- Nothing to install
- Runs in your browser
Illustration. Open the tool for the real thing.
See it in action
The Kinematics Graph Matcher with sample data entered and the result showing.
What is the Kinematics Graph Matcher?
Drag a runner so its position-time graph matches the target line, then get a score. It runs in your browser, so a change to a setting or a drag on an object shows up at once.
Physics classes, sports analysis, GPS tracking and vehicle data loggers all turn position-versus-time graphs into speed.
3 steps to your result
Open the tool and follow along. Nothing to install.
What you get
The slope of a position-time graph is the velocity.
A flat line means the object is stopped.
A steeper line means faster motion; a downward line means moving backwards.
Match the steady walk with a smooth drag.
Try the stop-and-go target and pause in the flat part.
Try to reach a score of 90 or more on the back-and-forth target.
Used for
Pick one to see how it fits.
Physics learners
Physics students in middle school, high school and first-year university, teachers who want a quick demonstration for the projector, and anyone revising for exams.
Try it freeTeachers
For teachers: project the Kinematics Graph Matcher (Position-Time) on the board, let students predict the result, then run it together and test this: Try the stop-and-go target and pause in the flat part. For students: change one thing at a time and write down what changes.
Try it freeHow it compares
A plain look at this tool next to the usual alternative.
| This simulation | Textbook diagram | |
|---|---|---|
| Interactive | Drag, tap and change settings | Fixed picture |
| Install | Nothing to install | Not needed |
| Cost | Free to use | Depends on the book |
Questions people ask
How do you find velocity from a position-time graph?
Take the slope: change in position divided by change in time.
What does a curved position-time graph mean?
The velocity is changing, so the object is accelerating.
Is the Kinematics Graph Matcher (Position-Time) free to use?
Yes. The Kinematics Graph Matcher (Position-Time) is free, needs no signup or download and runs in your web browser. It is part of the Physics group of AZRS simulations.
Does the Kinematics Graph Matcher (Position-Time) work on a phone or tablet?
Yes. The Kinematics Graph Matcher (Position-Time) takes touch input as well as mouse input, so you can use its 1 adjustable settings with a finger. A larger screen makes the controls and graphs easier to read.
How do I use the Kinematics Graph Matcher?
1. In the Kinematics Graph Matcher (Position-Time), use the controls to change Target. The simulation reacts instantly. 2. In the Kinematics Graph Matcher (Position-Time), pick an option such as Steady walk, Stop and go, Back and forth to switch modes or load an example. 3. In the Kinematics Graph Matcher (Position-Time), press "Start", "Reset" to start, reset or change what is happening. 4. Start with this experiment: Match the steady walk with a smooth drag. Drag any glowing handle, object or slider with your mouse or finger and the Kinematics Graph Matcher (Position-Time) responds in real time. 5. Change one setting at a time and watch which readout moves, then compare it with this idea: The slope of a position-time graph is the velocity.
More free tools
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Try the Kinematics Graph Matcher now
Drag a runner so its position-time graph matches the target line, then get a score. Free to use.
Try it free