Displacement from area under velocity-time graph

Steps:

• Examine the graph for the interval from t=0 to t=4 s.
• Compute the area under the velocity curve in this interval, representing displacement.
• The area equals 36 m, indicating the distance traveled.
• Compare with other intervals and features to check choices.

Why C is correct:

• Distance traveled equals the area under the v-t graph (displacement if velocity is positive), which is 36 m for the first 4 s.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Acceleration (graph slope) is not 2 m/s²; no 4 s stop or reversal (no zero or negative velocity segment).
• B: No constant 12 m/s segment for exactly 2 s.
• D: Area under the curve for the last 4 s is not 48 m.

Final answer: C