Position — Science definition
Defined in 2 courses:
- Location relative to a chosen origin. (Physical Science: Matter, Forces & Energy)
- An object's location relative to a chosen reference point (the origin), usually given as a coordinate with a sign for direction. (Physics & Environmental Science)
Where it is taught
- Reading Motion Graphs — Motion, Physical Science: Matter, Forces & Energy, Grade 8
- Describing Motion — Motion & Kinematics, Physics & Environmental Science, Grade 12
In use
A position–time graph shows where an object is relative to a chosen origin.
Reading Motion Graphs
You pick an origin — a reference point you're calling zero — and then an object's position is just its location measured from that origin, complete with a sign that tells you which side it's on.
Describing Motion
Questions using position
Problem 1
A horizontal position–time segment means…
- rest
- constant positive acceleration
- infinite speed
- motion backward
Answer and explanation
rest
Position does not change.
Problem 2
Position changes from 3 m to 15 m in 4 s. Find average velocity.
Answer and explanation
3 m/s
(15 − 3) ÷ 4 = 3.
Problem 3
Does a falling position–time line always mean slowing down?
Answer and explanation
No. It means position decreases. A straight falling line represents constant negative velocity.
Problem 4
Position changes from 4 m at 2 s to 16 m at 6 s on a straight segment. Find its velocity. Explain the reasoning in your own words.
Answer and explanation
Constant velocity of +3 m/s over this segment.
Vertical change=16−4=12 m; time change=6−2=4 s.
Slope=12/4=3 m/s.
Response criteria
- Use the stated conditions.
- Show the evidence or calculation.
- Explain the conclusion and any stated limitation.
Taught alongside
- slope
- average velocity
- model
- evidence
- system boundary
- assumption
- distance
- displacement
- scalar
- vector
- frame of reference