MHB Useful Derivation for Labs Involving Rolling Balls Down an Inclined Plane

AI Thread Summary
Experimental errors in beginning mechanics physics labs, particularly when analyzing rolling balls down inclines, can stem from various factors, including friction and misinterpretation of data. The discussion highlights the importance of using conservation of energy to derive the position function for a solid sphere rolling without slipping, resulting in the equation x(t) = x₀ - (5g/14)sin(θ)t². This formula shows that neglecting rotational kinetic energy leads to significant discrepancies in expected outcomes, emphasizing the need for accurate theoretical frameworks in experiments. Participants also debated teaching methods, with some advocating for a variety of problem-solving approaches while others stressed the importance of foundational understanding. Overall, a more precise theoretical approach can greatly enhance the accuracy of experimental results in physics.
  • #51
In any case, basic algebra, geometry and trigonometry must come before calculus.
 
  • Like
Likes vanhees71 and malawi_glenn

Similar threads

Rolling without slipping down an inclined plane
Replies
18
Views
5K
How should I use the averaging approximation to find this?
Replies
3
Views
2K
Morin 3.7 -- Block sliding sideways on an inclined plane
Replies
11
Views
1K
Block on top of an inclined plane, with a rough surface, that moves with constant acceleration
Replies
41
Views
3K
Spherical ball rolling back and forth in a bowl
Replies
24
Views
1K
I Landscape Fabric Roll
Replies
8
Views
3K
Modeling a mass falling from one side of the Earth to the other
Replies
1
Views
896
How to Derive the Range of a Projectile on an Inclined Plane?
Replies
9
Views
2K
Is this formula for a ball rolling down a ramp incorrect?
Replies
10
Views
3K
Find equation of motion of an inclined plane when there's friction
Replies
2
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top