Experiments

Investigating the Relationship Between Force and Acceleration

Click the right arrow to expand the section

Materials:

• Spring scale

• Cart

• Stopwatch

• Meter stick

Procedure:

1. Set up a track with a smooth surface.

2. Attach a spring scale to the cart.

3. Measure the mass of the cart.

4. Apply a known force to the cart using the spring scale.

5. Measure the acceleration of the cart using the stopwatch and meter stick.

6. Repeat the experiment with different forces and masses.

Analysis:

• Plot a graph of force vs. acceleration.

• Analyze the relationship between force and acceleration.

• Verify Newton's Second Law: F = ma.

Measuring the Coefficient of Friction

Materials:

• Spring scale

• Block

• Surface (e.g., wood, sandpaper)

Procedure:

1. Place the block on the surface.

2. Attach the spring scale to the block.

3. Gradually increase the force applied to the block until it starts to move.

4. Record the force required to overcome friction.

5. Repeat the experiment with different surfaces.

Analysis:

• Calculate the coefficient of friction using the formula: μ = F_friction / F_normal.

• Compare the coefficients of friction for different surfaces.