Exploring the Difference between Calculated & Experimental Acceleration

In summary, the conversation discusses a physics lab involving a car on a horizontal table attached to a string with weights. The experimental acceleration and calculated acceleration were different, and the teacher asked for the cause of this difference, mentioning Newton's laws. The student considers factors such as friction and human reaction time, and determines that the latter could be a contributing factor. The conversation ends with a clarification on the concept of human reaction time.
  • #1
Ninjarzz
4
0

Homework Statement



So we did a lab this week in my physics class.

We had a car on a horizontal table, that was attached to a string with weights (The weights were over the edge of the table.) We then calculated the experimental acceleration and the calculated acceleration. These numbers were different.

My teacher asked us "What was causing the difference between the calculated acceleration and experimental acceleration..."
He also mentioned something to do with Newton's laws.

Do you know the answer/Can help me out?

HUMAN ERROR IS NOT THE ANSWER...And the the time was taken by a electronic device.

Homework Equations



g = 9.8 m/s

The Attempt at a Solution



I really don't know how to start! what's causing the difference!
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Friction, human reaction time. F = d(mv)/dt

Since friction affects net force, reaction affects time, one wouldn't expect to get the exact answer..
 
  • #3
unscientific said:
Friction, human reaction time. F = d(mv)/dt

Since friction affects net force, reaction affects time, one wouldn't expect to get the exact answer..

I'm not really sure what you mean by human reaction time?

Elaborate? like ... the time that i calculated forit to go? because it was takeen by a stop watch
 
  • #4
ok, human has a reaction time of about 0.19s. Which means you could have pressed the time too late, which means the time u measure is more than the the theoretically calculated time.
 

1. What is the difference between calculated and experimental acceleration?

The calculated acceleration is the predicted value of acceleration based on known equations and input variables. It is a theoretical value and may not always match with the actual acceleration. Experimental acceleration, on the other hand, is the measured value of acceleration from conducting an experiment. It takes into account factors such as error and external conditions, resulting in a more accurate value.

2. How do you calculate acceleration?

Acceleration is calculated by dividing the change in velocity by the change in time. It can be represented by the equation a = (vf - vi) / t, where a is acceleration, vf is final velocity, vi is initial velocity, and t is time.

3. Why is there a difference between calculated and experimental acceleration?

There can be several reasons for a difference between calculated and experimental acceleration. One possibility is measurement error, where the experimental acceleration differs from the actual value due to limitations in measurement tools or human error. Another reason could be external factors such as air resistance or friction, which affects the movement of an object and causes a difference between predicted and measured acceleration.

4. How can we minimize the difference between calculated and experimental acceleration?

To minimize the difference between calculated and experimental acceleration, it is essential to conduct experiments carefully and use accurate measurement tools. Taking multiple measurements and averaging them can also reduce the effect of measurement error. Additionally, understanding and accounting for external factors can help in getting a more accurate measurement of acceleration.

5. What is the importance of exploring the difference between calculated and experimental acceleration?

Exploring the difference between calculated and experimental acceleration is important for understanding the limitations of theoretical models and the effect of external factors on real-world scenarios. It also helps in improving the accuracy of predictions and measurements in various scientific fields such as physics, engineering, and astronomy.

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