When Is Distance Traveled Proportional to Time?

Among the scenarios given, your speed while riding a roller coaster represents a situation where distance traveled is proportional to time (assuming constant speed).

• Airplane takeoff: Acceleration varies, so distance ∝ time², not linear.
• Ball tossed up: Gravity causes constant acceleration; distance ∝ time² (up and down).
• Roller coaster at constant speed: Distance = speed × time → direct proportion.