Velocity-time graphs show how the velocity (or speed) of a moving object changes with time. These graphs also show if the object is moving at a constant speed or accelerating, decelerating, or still.

One of the most basic things students do in a physics lab is to collect data and use that to build a model. Most of these models come in the form of a mathematical function. But here is the problem.

Imagine you want to study what happens when an object accelerates. Oh, this is way before any of that internet stuff—also, no computers or electronics. In fact, let's say it's the year 1780. What do ...