How to test f=ma using trolley and ticker timer?

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    F=ma Test Timer
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around testing the relationship between mass and acceleration using a trolley and ticker timer setup. Participants explore the methodology of measuring acceleration by varying the mass of plasticine attached to the trolley and the implications of using ticker tape for data collection.

Discussion Character

  • Experimental/applied
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests changing the mass of plasticine on the trolley while keeping the angle of the inclined plane constant to test how mass affects acceleration.
  • Another participant questions the method of measuring the length of the ticker tape, emphasizing the importance of understanding how the ticker timer operates and suggesting that measuring the locations of markings may be more relevant.
  • A participant requests clarification on the specific length of the ticker tape being measured and the procedure used, indicating that a clear outline of the experimental steps is necessary for accurate discussion.
  • It is proposed that acceleration can be determined by measuring the spacing between dots on the tape at different points, which would allow for calculations using the 'suvat' equations.
  • Participants note that there are various combinations of measurements that can be derived from ticker timer tape results, highlighting the complexity of the analysis.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the methodology for measuring acceleration and the interpretation of ticker tape data. There is no consensus on the best approach or the specifics of the experimental setup.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully defined the assumptions regarding the ticker timer's operation or the specific measurements being taken, leaving some aspects of the methodology unresolved.

threy
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To test mass affects acceleration.
is it correct to change the mass of plasticine attached to the trolley and measure the length of the ticker tape strip with the constant variable be the angle of the inclined plane?
 
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It might be, depending on exactly how your "ticker timer" works. The experiments that I've done using a tape strip involved measuring not the length of the entire tape, but instead the locations of markings made on it as the trolley moves along it. Can you provide more details about your apparatus so we can be sure we're all discussing the same thing?
 
jtbell said:
It might be, depending on exactly how your "ticker timer" works. The experiments that I've done using a tape strip involved measuring not the length of the entire tape, but instead the locations of markings made on it as the trolley moves along it. Can you provide more details about your apparatus so we can be sure we're all discussing the same thing?

My apparatus includes inclined plane, ticker tape, ticker timer, wooden block, trolley and plasticine.

Is it correct to measure the length of the ticker tape strip to indicate the change in acceleration? Why?
 
What length of the ticker tape are you talking about?
What are you considering as the start and finish of the ticker tape?
I know how I did the experiment, but an outline of your procedure might also be in order.
Somehow you have to convert the distance between ticks into an average velocity, and do a calculation to find the acceleration.
How do you think you should do that?
 
You can find the acceleration by measuring the spacing between dots at a point where they are close together and then measuring the spacing further along the tape. The two dot spacings will give you the two speeds and the number of spaces in between will give the time taken for the change in speed. That will give acceleration, using the appropriate 'suvat' equation.
But there are a few different combinations of the measurements you can do with ticker timer tape results. Just remember that tape distance represents s and number of dots represents t.
 

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