vectors « Soxteaching: Physics, Chemistry, Technology

Physics Honors – Lab 05 – Two Dimensional Motion

October 5, 2011 soxteacher Leave a comment

Purpose

The purpose of this lab is to determine the acceleration due to gravity using two-dimensional motion concepts

Procedure

Students are given a GLX data device and a photogate timer
NOTE: students will need to be coached on the settings of using the photogate timer with the GLX
A ball is rolled horizontally off of lab table.
Its initial velocity and horizontal displacement are recorded, along with the height of the table
Multiple trials are conducted, gathering “x” vs. “v” data

Notes & Processing

The first step is to solve the two-dimensional motion problem for “a” in terms of the knowns, “v” “x” and “h”
once this is obtained, this answer can be re-arranged to fit the form of the “y = mx + b” for a straight line.
This form will show the expression that can be used to relate the data to the theoretical
The scatter plot will generate a best-fit line, whose slope can be then matched to the theoretical

September 28, 2011 soxteacher 1 comment

Purpose

The intent of this activity is to practice adding and manipulating vectors using both graphic and mathematical means.

Procedure

Students are given graph paper, rulers and protractors for the assignment.
Students are provided with a list of scenarios to attack. For each scenario, students must add the vectors graphically, finding the resultant.
NOTE: the graphic method includes using the parallelogram method.
Students are then asked to solve the same vector problem using mathematical methods.
In both approaches the magnitude and direction of the resultant should be determined.
Finally, calculate a percent difference separately for the magnitude and direction of each trial
Percent Difference = [(Graphical Result - Math Result)/(Math Result)] x 100%

Notes

Each sheet of paper is for one scenario, with the mathematical and graphical solutions being on opposite sides.
The assignment will be turned in at the end of the class period on Friday
HOMEWORK – Complete the math for all scenarios before Friday’s class period
Compilation of results posted [LINK]

Scenarios – Vectors to Be Added