NEWTON'S 2^nd LAW LAB

When an unbalanced force (net force) is applied to an object, the motion of that object will be changed. The change depends upon the size of the net force as well as the size of the object, size measured by its mass.

Newton's 2nd Law of Motion gives a relationship between the three variables, and you will work with them as you attempt to solve a specific problem in dynamics, the study of which motions come from which kinds of forces. In addition to answering a specific problem, you will develop an experimental understanding of Newton's 2^nd Law through your laboratory work.

Purpose

• Develop a understanding of how varying the net force on an object affects the acceleration
• Develop a understanding of how varying the mass of an object affects the acceleration
• Solve a specific problem involving a force applied to an object

Procedure

1. Vary the amount of net force acting on the system, each time measuring the acceleration. Maintain the mass of the system constant as you complete this step. Use at least 5 different force combinations.
    
2. Vary the mass of the system, each time measuring the acceleration. Maintain the net force at a constant value as you complete this step. Use at least 5 different mass combinations.
    
3. Solve the specific problem stated for your particular piece of apparatus and experimental procedure.

Analysis

1. Construct a graph of acceleration versus force for step (1). Determine the mathematical equation and state the general relationship indicated by your graph.
    
2. Construct a graph of acceleration versus mass for step (2). Determine the mathematical equation and state the general relationship indicated by your graph.
    
3. Carry out the calculations necessary in order to solve your specific problem.

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Specific Tasks and Setups for this Lab

	Specific Problem	Equipment	Setup
A	Make necessary adjustments in the mass of the cart and the hanging mass in order to achieve a linear acceleration of 2.40 m/s2. Show your calculations and a data run.	Smart Pulley Masses Laboratory Cart
B	Make necessary adjustments in the mass of the cart and the hanging mass in order to achieve a linear acceleration of 1.65 m/s2. Show your calculations and a data run.	Motion Detector Pulley Masses Laboratory Cart
C	Make necessary adjustments in the mass of the cart and the hanging mass in order to achieve a linear acceleration of 1.40 m/s2 up the slope. Show your calculations and a data run.	ULI Motion Detector Pulley Track Masses Laboratory Cart
D	Make necessary adjustments in the mass of the cart and the hanging mass in order to achieve a linear acceleration of 0.50 m/s2 down the slope. Show your calculations and a data run.	Motion Detector Pulley Track Masses Laboratory Cart
E	Make necessary adjustments in the mass of the cart and the angle of the inclined plane in order to achieve a linear acceleration of 1.20 m/s2. Show your calculations and a data run.	Motion Detector Plane Masses Laboratory Cart
F	Make necessary adjustments in the mass of the cart and the angle of the inclined plane in order to achieve a linear acceleration of -0.80 m/s2. Show your calculations and a data run.	Motion Detector Plane Masses Laboratory Cart
G	Examine the acceleration vs the angle of the fan. Determine the angle needed in order to achieve a linear acceleration of 0.150 m/s2. Show your calculations and a data run.	Motion Detector Fan Cart Masses
H	Make necessary adjustments in the two masses in order to achieve a linear acceleration of 2.50 m/s2. Show your calculations and a data run.	Smart Pulley Masses Ring Stand
I	Make necessary adjustments in the two masses in order to achieve a final velocity of 2.50 m/s after falling a distance that you provide. Show your calculations and a data run.	Smart Pulley Masses Ring Stand
J	Make necessary adjustments in the two masses in order to cover a total distance of 0.85 meters in a time of 0.90 sec. Show your calculations and a data run.	Motion Detector Pulley Masses Ring Stand