FORCE, MASS AND ACCELERATION
4 marks · NormalA student investigates the effect of unbalanced force on the acceleration of a trolley, using the apparatus shown.
Describe how the student could measure the acceleration of the trolley in this experiment.
The mass of the trolley and the hanging weights is 1.8 kg. If the total unbalanced force is 5.4 N, calculate the acceleration of the trolley.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
Show answer
(a) Measure the time it takes the trolley to travel a known distance, or use light gates to measure velocity at start and end, then calculate acceleration from change in velocity and time.
(b) 3.0 m/s^2
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
M1 (a) · 1 mark · States at least one correct method for measuring acceleration (e.g. measure time over a distance; use light gates; or use a video to get displacement and time)
A1 (a) · 1 mark · Mentions calculating acceleration from measured data (distance/time, velocity-time, or appropriate formula)
M2 (b) · 1 mark · Uses a = F/m correctly and substitutes correct values
A2 (b) · 1 mark · Evaluates to 3.0 m/s^2 with correct working and units (follow-through)
Worked solution
a) The student can measure the distance the trolley travels and the time taken, then calculate acceleration using a suitable formula.
Alternatively, light gates could be used to measure initial and final velocities and calculate acceleration from the change in velocity over time.