Investigating Motion

• What is the purpose of conducting an experiment on mass and force?

  To understand how they affect acceleration
• What is Newton's 2nd law formula?

  F = ma
• What are the steps to set up the experiment?

  1. Set up the trolley with a card and light gate.
  2. Connect the trolley to a string over a pulley.
  3. Use a hook with known mass for acceleration.
  4. Mark a starting line for consistent distance.
  5. Release the trolley and record acceleration.
• How does the light gate measure acceleration?

  By measuring the velocity of the card pieces
• What does the weight of the hook provide in the experiment?

  The accelerating force for the system
• What should be done to keep the total mass constant while changing force?

  Transfer masses from the trolley to the hook
• What are the two main variables investigated in the experiment?

  • Effect of mass on acceleration
  • Effect of force on acceleration
• What should be done to ensure consistent measurements during the experiment?

  Mark a starting line for the trolley
• Why is it important to repeat the experiment multiple times?

  To obtain an average acceleration measurement
• What effect does friction have on the experiment?

  It may affect the measured acceleration
• What alternative setup could reduce friction in the experiment?

  Using an air track
• How do you investigate the effect of mass on acceleration?

  • Add masses to the trolley one at a time.
  • Record average acceleration for each mass.
• How do you investigate the effect of force on acceleration?

  • Keep total mass constant.
  • Transfer masses from trolley to hook.
  • Record average acceleration for each force.