Finding the Acceleration of Gravity from these Dropped Ball Experiments

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the acceleration due to gravity (g) using data from a ball drop experiment. Participants explored using the equations of motion, specifically the relationship between height and time squared (height vs. t²) to derive g from the slope of the graph. The confusion arose regarding the interpretation of the slope and the proper application of the equations, particularly in the context of the initial height (Yo) and its relation to time squared. The correct approach involves recognizing that the slope of the height vs. t² graph directly correlates to the acceleration due to gravity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinematic equations, specifically X = Xo + v*t + 1/2*a*t²
  • Familiarity with graphing techniques, particularly linear regression in the form y = mx + b
  • Basic knowledge of physics concepts related to free fall and acceleration
  • Ability to analyze experimental data and interpret graphical results
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to derive acceleration from the slope of a height vs. time squared graph
  • Study the principles of free fall and gravitational acceleration in physics
  • Explore linear regression techniques for analyzing experimental data
  • Investigate the impact of initial height on the time of fall in free fall experiments
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics courses, educators teaching kinematics, and anyone conducting experiments related to gravitational acceleration and motion analysis.

Bobb
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Homework Statement
Basically we did a lab where we dropped a ball and recorded the times then we created 3 graphs. Height vs t, height vs t^2. and sqrt of height vs. t. Where I'm confused is they want us to two 2 values of g from the slopes of the height vs t^2. and sqrt of height vs. t graphs. I thought the slope for height vs t^2 was already acceleration how would we find g from these?
Relevant Equations
X = Xo +Vot + 1/2at^2

0 = Yo + 0 -1/2gt^2
Did not know where to start so I tried A= v/t to find velocity then plug into equation to find g, but i got a huge g.
 
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Bobb said:
Homework Statement: Basically we did a lab where we dropped a ball and recorded the times then we created 3 graphs. Height vs t, height vs t^2. and sqrt of height vs. t. Where I'm confused is they want us to two 2 values of g from the slopes of the height vs t^2. and sqrt of height vs. t graphs. I thought the slope for height vs t^2 was already acceleration how would we find g from these?
Homework Equations: X = Xo +volt + 1/2at^2

0 = Yo + 0 -1/2gt^2

Did not know where to start so I tried A= v/t to find velocity then plug into equation to find g, but i got a huge g.
Let’s see your graph of height vs t^2
 
Second one, teacher wanted it to be in y= mx+b form
 

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Bobb said:
Second one, teacher wanted it to be in y= mx+b form
How can the height be increasing with time?
 
Chestermiller said:
How can the height be increasing with time?
If you drop something from higher up it takes longer to get to the ground.

Bobb said:
0 = Yo + 0 -1/2gt^2

So what does this tell you about Yo as a function of t^2? If you let t^2 = s, you are asked to find g by computing the slope of the function Yo(s).
 
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Orodruin said:
If you drop something from higher up it takes longer to get to the ground.
Ah. I was confused. I though he was measuring the distance fallen in a single drop as a function of time.
 

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