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NCERT Class 7 Science Chapter 8

Measurement of Time and Motion

This chapter introduces CBSE Class 7 students to the concepts of time, speed, and different types of motion. Students learn to measure time using various instruments, calculate speed using the formula speed = distance/time, and differentiate between uniform and non-uniform motion. The chapter also explores how motion is described using distance-time graphs.

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Key Terms

Motion
The change in the position of an object with respect to its surroundings over a period of time.
Speed
The distance covered by an object per unit of time, calculated using the formula: Speed = Distance ÷ Time. The SI unit of speed is metres per second (m/s).
Uniform Motion
Motion in which an object covers equal distances in equal intervals of time, maintaining constant speed throughout.
Non-uniform Motion
Motion in which an object covers unequal distances in equal intervals of time, meaning its speed changes over time.
Distance-Time Graph
A graphical representation of an object's motion where distance is plotted on the Y-axis and time on the X-axis. A straight line indicates uniform motion.
Oscillation
A repetitive back-and-forth or to-and-fro motion, such as the swinging of a pendulum. The time for one complete oscillation is called its time period.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the formula for speed in Class 7 Science?

Speed is calculated using the formula: Speed = Distance ÷ Time. If distance is in metres and time is in seconds, speed is in metres per second (m/s). If distance is in kilometres and time is in hours, speed is in kilometres per hour (km/h).

What is the difference between uniform and non-uniform motion?

In uniform motion, an object covers the same distance in every equal interval of time (constant speed), like a car on a highway at steady speed. In non-uniform motion, the distances covered in equal time intervals are different, like a car in city traffic.

How do you read a distance-time graph?

In a distance-time graph, the X-axis shows time and the Y-axis shows distance. A straight line with a slope indicates uniform motion — the steeper the line, the faster the speed. A curved line indicates non-uniform motion, and a horizontal line means the object is at rest.

What is a simple pendulum and how is it used to measure time?

A simple pendulum consists of a string with a bob (small weight) attached. It swings back and forth in a regular pattern. The time for one complete swing (time period) remains constant for a given length, making it useful for measuring time accurately.

What are the SI units of distance, time, and speed?

The SI unit of distance is the metre (m), the SI unit of time is the second (s), and the SI unit of speed is metres per second (m/s). For longer distances, kilometres (km) and hours (h) are commonly used.

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