How does the gradient of the graph compare to the W force

[Orm25]

Homework Statement

How does the gradient of the graph compare to the weight force?
The graph is a Mass vs 1/Acceleration graph (y axis = mass, x-axis = Acceleration, It was mentioned to do this.)

Homework Equations

Explain by referring to the formula for Newton's Second Law.

The Attempt at a Solution

I know that F = m * a
Could someone explain what must be done and what the use of a reciprocal is?

Thanks!

 

[cnh1995]

How is the slope of a line represented in terms of x and y co-ordinates of a point on the line (assuming the line passes through (0,0))?

 

[Orm25]

Hi,
The slope of the graph from the line of best fit is 11/20.
The problem I am having is with the comparison of the slope to the weight force which I calculated to be
W = m * g mass of 1 gram = 0.001 KG

W = 0.001 * 9.8

W = 0.0098 N

 

[haruspex]

You quote F=ma. I'm not sure which force F represents in your experiment, but I assume it is not the weight of the mass, although you mention W=mg in the later post.

You are used to graphs like y=slope * x. Here, you have y standing for m and x standing for 1/a. So rearrange your F=ma into the form y = slope * x.