Constant Acceleration on a Level Plane
A new take on a classic way to present a challenging concept.
- Quality cart and track construction provides smooth, consistent acceleration.
- Setup is quick and easy.
- Works as a class demonstration or group activity.
The Teaching Challenge
Teaching acceleration is challenging. While students will generally grasp constant velocity with ease, understanding constantly changing velocity can prove to be much more difficult.
The PASCO Solution
Use this activity to introduce Newton's Second Law of Motion, and as a great jumping off point for distinguishing the concepts of mass and weight.
Solution at a Glance
| Qty. | ||
| 1.2 m PAScar Dynamics System (ME-6955) | $259 | 1 |
| Xplorer GLX (PS-2002) | $349 | 1 |
| PASPORT Motion Sensor (PS-2103A) | $80 | 1 |
| Mass and Hanger Set (ME-8979) | $79 | 1 |
For more product information and to order products separately, see below.
How It Works
This is a straightforward way to teach constant acceleration.
Simply place Dynamics Cart on a level Dynamics Track that is itself sitting at the edge of a table or counter. A string with a suspended mass at one end is tied to the cart and run over a pulley fastened to the end of the Dynamics Track. At the other end of the track is a Motion Detector. This setup assures a smooth and constant acceleration each time, giving repeatable and reliable results.With a little practice, constant acceleration causing an object to reverse motion can be demonstrated with this setup as well--the students just place the cart at the pulley end of the track and give it a gentle push toward the detector.
Data from a cart accelerating along a level track.
Here's What You Need
U.S. Educator prices shown.
Study constant acceleration using our Dynamics Systems and an Xplorer GLX
PAStrack Dynamics System (ME-6961) - $249
The PAStrack Dynamics System is designed to study collision, Newton’s law, oscillations, Hooke’s law, velocity, and acceleration.
Xplorer GLX (PS-2002) - $349
The Xplorer GLX is a data collection, graphing, and analysis tool designed for science students and educators.
PASPORT Motion Sensor (PS-2103A) - $80
Accurately measures position, velocity, and acceleration of a target. For use with PASPORT Interfaces.
Mass and Hanger Set (ME-8979) - $79
Polycarbonate mass hangers with steel posts and "holed' masses that will not fall off. 4 hangers and 27 weights ranging from 1/2 g to 100 g.
Study constant acceleration using our Dynamics Systems and a computer
PAStrack Dynamics System (ME-6961) - $249
The PAStrack Dynamics System is designed to study collision, Newton’s law, oscillations, Hooke’s law, velocity, and acceleration.
SPARKlink (PS-2009) - $129
SPARKlink is a sensor interface with two ports to accept PASPORT sensors and USB connection to a computer running SPARKvue software. Built in temperature and voltage sensors allow for measurements right out of the box.
DataStudio Software (Site License) (CI-6871G) - $359
The award-winning DataStudio is the only software you need to collect, display and analyze scientific data. Site License.
Mass and Hanger Set (ME-8979) - $79
Polycarbonate mass hangers with steel posts and "holed' masses that will not fall off. 4 hangers and 27 weights ranging from 1/2 g to 100 g.
