Lab - Acceleration Down an Incline Plane

• Emphasis - collection of data, analysis of data, calculations, graphs, lab format
• Reference
  • pp. 33-36 in text
  • Mr. Lalondes' notes - Acceleration down an incline plane
• Additional Instruction
  • using ticker tape timers
    • frequency 60 Hz. vs period 1/60 s
    • initial sot to use
    • use every 6th dot
  • analysis of data
    • when the calculated value applies

• use of graphs (for calculations)
  • in addition to the above method you will create a velocity vs. time graph and calculate the average acceleration from the graph.
• significant digits
  • when measuring
    • use one more decimal than the smallest increment on the scale.
  • when calculating
    • round off on last step

• What to Hand In
  • Refer to Format of Lab Write Up
  • Lab Write up
    • Title Page
    • Purpose ; To attempt uniform acceleration.
    • Question ; Refer to p34 Text
    • Hypothesis / Prediction
      • Acceleration will equal the component of vertical acceleration in the direction of the inclined plane. You will need a vector diagram and calculation with this in your appendix.
    • Design
      • Just refer to a diagram in your appendix.
    • Materials; Refer to p34 Text
    • Procedure; Refer to p34 Text
    • Observations
      • Observations should be appended in a table. The table should be numbered and titled.
      • The body of the lab should refer to the tabulated observations and raw data. (If the observations and calculated values are included on the same table the reference to the observed data should specify the columns which include observed data only.)
      • Don't forget to include all other observed measurements and anecdotal observations in this section of the report.
      • You must append your raw data (ticker tape)
    • Analysis / Conclusion
      • A sample calculation should be appended which calculates velocity and acceleration values. A velocity vs. time graph should be created. Average acceleration should be calculated from this graph. A graph of acceleration vs. time shall be created with a straight line representing the average acceleration and data points indicating individual calculated accelerations.
        • calculations should be in the correct format
        • bonus - it is best if calculations are completed on a spreadsheet.
      • The analysis section should refer to all appended information by name and title.
      • Your conclusion should answer the question and or prediction.
        • conclude vs. no conclusion
        • consistent with (within error limits)

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