# A cyclist sets off from rest and reaches a speed of 12 m/s in 8 seconds. She then travels at a constant speed for 30 seconds before slowing down uniformly and stopping in a further 6 seconds. Describe how the velocity and acceleration of the cyclist change during each of the three stages of the journey.

> Eduqas GCSE Physics — 4.1 Speed, velocity and acceleration · Describe · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. During the first stage, the velocity increases (from zero to 12 m/s) / the cyclist accelerates
2. During the second stage, the velocity is constant / the acceleration is zero
3. During the third stage, the velocity decreases (to zero) / the cyclist decelerates
4. The acceleration in the third stage is in the opposite direction to the motion / the acceleration is negative (deceleration)

## Key terms

- [velocity](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/velocity)
- [acceleration](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/acceleration)
- [constant speed](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/constant-speed)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Physics](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-cyclist-sets-off-from-rest-6d575054) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.