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In an experiment to measure the acceleration due to gravity, the time t for an object to fall from rest through a distance s was measured - Leaving Cert Physics - Question 1 - 2009
Question 1
In an experiment to measure the acceleration due to gravity, the time t for an object to fall from rest through a distance s was measured. The procedure was repeated... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In an experiment to measure the acceleration due to gravity, the time t for an object to fall from rest through a distance s was measured - Leaving Cert Physics - Question 1 - 2009
Step 1
Draw a labelled diagram of the apparatus used in the experiment.
Answer
To illustrate the setup of the experiment, draw a diagram that includes the following components: a timer, a ball, a release mechanism (e.g., a trap door), and a pressure plate. Ensure to label each component clearly to indicate their functions. The timer is connected to the release mechanism and starts timing when the ball is released. The pressure plate is where the ball makes contact at the end of its fall.
Step 2
Step 3
Describe how the time interval t was measured.
Answer
The time interval t was measured using a timer that is triggered when the ball leaves the release mechanism. The timer stops when the ball impacts the pressure plate. This method ensures that the time recorded is the accurate duration it takes for the ball to travel from its initial height to the point of impact.
Step 4
Calculate a value for the acceleration due to gravity by drawing a suitable graph based on the recorded data.
Answer
To calculate the acceleration due to gravity, plot a graph of distance s (on the x-axis) against the square of time t² (on the y-axis). Calculate t² for each recorded time, then plot the points. A straight line indicates a uniform acceleration due to gravity. Determine the slope of the line; this is equivalent to
g = rac{2s}{t^2}
Using the slope from the graph, you can compute the acceleration due to gravity (g). For instance, if the slope is obtained as 5.02, then the value of g can be derived accordingly.
Step 5