Newtons 2nd law

• What is the first step in the practical procedure?

  Measure the mass of the trolley
• Why are light gates set up in two positions along the ramp?

  To measure speed and calculate acceleration
• What is the purpose of attaching a string to the trolley?

  To allow it to accelerate when released
• What should be done after attaching a string to the trolley?

  Attach a fixed mass to the string
• What is the effect of varying masses attached to the trolley?

  It allows for different acceleration measurements
• Which law explains the relationship between force and acceleration?

  Newton's Second Law
• What is the equation for Newton's Second Law?

  Force = Mass x Acceleration
• What instrument should be used to measure the mass of the trolley?

  An electric balance
• How should the electric balance be prepared before measuring the trolley?

  It should be zeroed before use
• How can you determine an appropriate fixed mass for the experiment?

  Conduct a preliminary experiment to find the weight
• What happens if too large a fixed weight is used?

  The trolley accelerates too quickly for accurate timing
• How does adding masses to the trolley affect its acceleration?

  The acceleration decreases as masses are added
• Why are two light gates necessary for timing?

  To calculate average speed and acceleration
• What must be attached to the trolley for the light gate system to function?

  A piece of card to cut the beam
• How is the average speed at each light gate calculated?

  Speed = Distance / Time
• How can the acceleration of the trolley be calculated between two light gates?

  Using change in velocity over time
• What should the graph of acceleration against mass look like?

  It should show a decreasing trend
• What could be plotted to produce a straight line graph?

  Acceleration against the reciprocal of mass
• What safety precautions should be taken during the experiment?

  • Place something soft below the falling mass
  • Avoid standing near the hanging mass
  • Ensure masses are securely attached to the trolley