What materials do we need to measure acceleration due to gravity?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on measuring the acceleration due to gravity, referred to as "little g," using specific materials: a pulley, string, two masses, a steel frame, and measurement devices. The experiment involves suspending two weights on a pulley to measure the distance and speed of the falling mass. The initial formula used by the students was incorrect, leading to confusion, but they ultimately deduced the correct approach independently. Clear communication of equations and variable definitions is essential for accurate experimentation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly Newton's laws of motion.
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations related to motion and acceleration.
  • Experience with laboratory measurement techniques and data recording.
  • Knowledge of pulley systems and their mechanical advantages.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the kinematic equations for uniformly accelerated motion.
  • Learn about the principles of pulley systems and their applications in physics experiments.
  • Explore methods for accurately measuring acceleration using digital sensors.
  • Investigate common pitfalls in experimental physics and how to avoid them.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for AP Physics students, educators, and anyone involved in experimental physics who seeks to understand the practical application of measuring gravitational acceleration.

Patrick Bateman
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Hello, I am a student in AP Physics and we have hit a wall for one of our labs. My group has been tasked with finding "little g" otherwise known as acceleration due to gravity. We HAVE to use the following materials in our experiment.

-a pulley
-string
-2 masses (kg weights)
-a steel frame
-measurement and recording devices

We suspended the two weights on opposite sides of the pulley and we are measuring how far and fast the heavier mass falls. We thought we had the correct possible formula but it have us a wrong answer. We have to assume that we don't know g before hand. Here is a picture of our formula.

Please help me out.
 

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Your picture is unreadable. Please type out the equations, and define your variables.
 
Never mind. I deduced the answer. Thank you for your response though.
 

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