AP Physics 1
Analyzing motion
A dune buggy, a ramp, and some physics textbooks.
Forces
There are four Fundamental Forces:
Gravity
Electromagnetic
Strong
Weak
In this case the main force is gravity. The inclination of the ramp also helps propel the cart forward. Gravity still is the main force in this lab. The gravity pulling down on the cart helps push it forward.
Newton's 2nd Law of Motion:
F=ma
This equation will calculate the forces acting on the car out side of itself. The cart does accelerate, but at a constant speed. For example: We know mass- 0.6 kg and acceleration- 0.7m/s^2. We can plug this in to find F= (0.6)(0.7) -> F= 0.42. The net force is about 0.42 N.
Free Body Diagram:
Gravity
Electromagnetic
Strong
Weak
In this case the main force is gravity. The inclination of the ramp also helps propel the cart forward. Gravity still is the main force in this lab. The gravity pulling down on the cart helps push it forward.
Newton's 2nd Law of Motion:
F=ma
This equation will calculate the forces acting on the car out side of itself. The cart does accelerate, but at a constant speed. For example: We know mass- 0.6 kg and acceleration- 0.7m/s^2. We can plug this in to find F= (0.6)(0.7) -> F= 0.42. The net force is about 0.42 N.
Free Body Diagram:
This free body diagram illustrates all forces acting on the cart while on the inclined ramp. Gravity pulls down on the cart, the ramp pushes up against the cart, and friction provides a light drag. The applied force would be the force of the cart sliding forward, overcoming drag.