In GCSE Physics, 'Direct Proportion' refers to the relationship between two variables where, as one variable increases, the other increases at a consistent rate, and vice versa. This means that the ratio of the two variables is constant.
For example, if you double one variable, the other will also double, maintaining the same ratio. This relationship is often represented graphically by a straight line passing through the origin on a Cartesian plane.
An I-V graph for an ohmic conductor is a straight line graph through the origin
Direct proportion is an important concept in physics because it helps describe predictable relationships between physical quantities, such as force and extension in Hooke's Law.
Examiner-written GCSE Physics revision resources that improve your grades 2x
- Written by expert teachers and examiners
- Aligned to exam specifications
- Everything you need to know, and nothing you don’t
Share this article
written revision resources that improve your