Force & Motion: Constant Acceleration

Students push a cart uphill and watch it return downhill. By observing the cart as it goes through a complete change of direction, your students are challenged to apply the full range of their understanding of motion to the plot of position, velocity and acceleration.

Lab Summary:

Students will use the Motion Sensor to investigate the relationship between position, velocity, and acceleration. Students will measure position, velocity, and acceleration for a cart with constant acceleration. They will examine the slope of a plot of velocity versus time and compare it to the average value of the acceleration.

Download free labs:

(student versions)

Computer-based lab (PDF, 516 KB)

Xplorer GLX-based lab (PDF, 240 KB)

Method:

Use a Motion Sensor to measure the motion of a cart as it moves up and down an inclined plane. Analyze the graphs of position, velocity, and acceleration.

Here's What You Need:

Required for computer-based lab:

(See lab download for Xplorer GLX-based lab requirements, which may differ)

Probeware

• PASPORT Motion Sensor (PS-2103A)
• Xplorer GLX Graphing Datalogger (PS-2002)
  (or alternate PASPORT interface -- see other options)

Other Materials

• PAScar Dynamics System, 1.2 m (ME-6955)
• Large Rod Base (ME-8735)
• Rod, 45 cm (18") Plated, 1/2" dia. (ME-8736)

Lab Manual:

The computer-based activity is included in Explorations in Physics (PS-2810). The Xplorer GLX-based lab is included in Physics with the Xplorer GLX (PS-2826). Both manuals are complete with Teacher Information pages, student instructions and handouts, and sample data.

For your convenience, we offer bundles which provide the probeware for the activities in the manual. For more, please see:
Computer-based Physics Lab Manual and Bundles
Xplorer GLX-based Physics Lab Manual and Bundles