Newton's 2nd law

• What is the purpose of Core Practical 1?

  Investigate the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration
• What equipment is needed for the experiment?

  • Trolley
  • 10 x 0.1kg masses
  • String
  • Pulley
  • Ramp
  • Light gates
  • Clamps and clamp stands
  • Data Logger
  • Balance
  • Piece of card
• How many 0.1kg masses are used in the experiment?

  10
• What is the first step in the method?

  Set up the equipment as shown in the diagram
• How do you measure the mass of the trolley?

  Use the balance to measure it
• What should be done with the first mass during the experiment?

  Start with one 0.1kg mass hanging on the string
• What should you record after releasing the trolley?

  Time and velocity at each light gate
• What should you do after recording the first set of data?

  Add one 0.1kg mass to the trolley and repeat
• What is the formula to calculate acceleration?

  $a =$$\frac{v - u}{t}$
• What should be plotted on the graph after calculations?

  • Acceleration against mass (inverse relationship)
  • Acceleration against $\frac{1}{mass}$ (straight line)

  
• How can you counteract friction in the experiment?

  Raise the ramp slightly
• Why is it important to measure the length of the card on the trolley?

  To calculate the velocity accurately
• What must remain constant during the experiment?

  The mass at the end of the string
• What safety precautions should be taken during the experiment?

  • Place something soft below the falling mass
  • Do not stand next to the end of the ramp
  • Secure masses to the trolley with tape or sticky tack
• What should be placed below the falling mass?

  Something soft to break the fall
• Why should you not stand next to the end of the ramp?

  To avoid being hit by falling objects
• How should the masses be attached to the trolley?

  Using tape or sticky tack