Atwood Machine: Reduce Exp Errors By Stabilizing Masses

[wiccabean21]

Homework Statement

String that is equal in length to the string connecting the pulley is sometimes tied to the bottoms of the two masses, where it hangs suspended between them. Explain why this would reduce experimental errors.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I'm not sure but does the string help stabalize the masses when one is dropped so they travel the exact same distance?

 

[berkeman]

Homework Statement

String that is equal in length to the string connecting the pulley is sometimes tied to the bottoms of the two masses, where it hangs suspended between them. Explain why this would reduce experimental errors.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I'm not sure but does the string help stabalize the masses when one is dropped so they travel the exact same distance?

The question asks why it helps to reduce experimental errors. It's not referring to mechanically stabilizing anything.

What are the assumptions for an ideal Atwood Machine? What keeps you from being able to build an ideal/perfect AM? What could you do to mitigate these imperfections?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atwood_machine

.

 

[wiccabean21]

But I don't understand what the experimental errors are... how could string have affected it in any way?

 

[berkeman]

But I don't understand what the experimental errors are... how could string have affected it in any way?

Did you read the link that I posted? The clues are in there. (Or in your textbook's description of the AM)