Calculating Acceleration on an Inclined Surface: Simplifying Factors and Methods

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on calculating the acceleration of a toy car on an inclined surface while neglecting air resistance and friction. The key equation used is derived from the SUVAT equations, specifically s = ut + 1/2at², which simplifies to s = 1/2at² for this scenario. The participants emphasize measuring the distance (42 cm) and timing the descent with a stopwatch to determine acceleration. The acceleration can be calculated using the formula a = 2s/t², where 's' is the distance and 't' is the time taken.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts such as force and acceleration (F=ma).
  • Familiarity with the SUVAT equations for motion analysis.
  • Knowledge of measuring time accurately using a stopwatch.
  • Basic trigonometry to resolve forces on an incline (mgsinθ and mgcosθ).
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation and applications of the SUVAT equations in different motion scenarios.
  • Learn about the effects of friction and air resistance on acceleration in real-world experiments.
  • Explore advanced techniques for measuring acceleration, such as using motion sensors or accelerometers.
  • Investigate the impact of varying angles of incline on acceleration and the corresponding calculations.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators designing experiments, and hobbyists interested in understanding motion dynamics on inclined planes.

Svensken
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Homework Statement



Hello!

I was thinking about designing an experiment in which i would investigate the angle of incline of a surface and the acceleration of a toy car moving down it. I will most likely be using a stopwatch. My question is:
How should i go about calculating the acceleration without having to account for air ressistance and friction etc - or do i have t do that? I want to keep it relatively simple.

Homework Equations



F=ma
delta V/ delta t = acceleration
Suvat equations?

The Attempt at a Solution



I was thinking about simply taking the time and the displacement (42cm)and using this.
Possibly suvat equations but i really don't know?

Thanks!
 
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At an angle θ, the weight, mg, has components mgsinθ and mgcosθ. If you are neglecting all friction (inc. the one due to the surface), then only one force acts parallel to the incline, which is mgsinθ. So the acceleration will be constant for an angle θ.
 
Well thank you. However i cannot simply use a formula us such. I wish to derive it using for example, a stopwatch. Any ideas?

Thanks again
 
Svensken said:
Well thank you. However i cannot simply use a formula us such. I wish to derive it using for example, a stopwatch. Any ideas?

Thanks again

you could measure the distance down the incline and then time it from the top to the bottom. s=ut+1/2at2 which will simplify to s=1/2at2 and find 'a'.
 
Thank you, i will do so!
 

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