How can you ensure you pull a mass at a constant velocity

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods to ensure a mass is pulled at a constant velocity during an experiment. Participants explore practical approaches and considerations related to the setup and execution of the experiment, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a consistent speed.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests measuring the time taken for a reference point on the block to pass markings to determine if the velocity is constant, proposing a tolerance of ±5%.
  • Another participant recommends using a motor with appropriate gearing to maintain constant velocity, although this suggestion is challenged by the original poster's constraints.
  • A different participant advises practicing moving the object at a predetermined speed and suggests marking intervals to aid in maintaining that speed, while also mentioning the potential use of a turntable for winding a thread.
  • There is a query about the role of friction and whether the use of wheels is permissible in the experiment.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility of using motors versus manual methods, and there is no consensus on the best approach without further details about the experiment and equipment available.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of specific details regarding the experiment setup, including the type of mass being pulled and the available equipment, which are not fully provided.

Nick tringali
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In an experiment I hope to carry out, one of my "constants" are velocity (constant velocity). I must say a way I will keep this value constant. For example I can not say "I will try my best to pull mass at a constant velocity" "I will take a video of the experiment. When I examine the video, I will measure the time for the reference point on the block to pass the markings. This data will be included in the report. I will consider the velocity to be constant if the time to travel through equally spaced markings is within + or – 5% of each other"
 
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Don't pull it by hand. Use a motor with appropriate gearing.
 
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Thanks A.T. The problem is I do not have a motor this must be done by hand:biggrin:
 
Without the details of the experiment and what equipment you have available, nobody can help you.

You should practise moving whatever it is at a constant speed ... pick the speed, say 10cm per second, mark out 10cm intervals and move the object past each 10cm mark when your watch ticks off each second. Something like that. The alternative is improvising some sort of machine.
If you have an old turntable, you can attach a bobbin to the middle and use it to wind a thread attached to the object.

Thing is - neither of these suggestions work if you are supposed to push a car.
Details are important.
 
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Thanks Simon, both of your suggestions will work.
 
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"I must say a way I will keep this value constant."
Very low friction? Are wheels allowed?
 

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