Uniform Linear Motion Experiment

Abstract

The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the concept of uniform linear motion using an air track. We aimed to demonstrate principles related to impulse and change in momentum, the conservation of energy, and linear motion. Specifically, we calculated distance over time, acceleration over time, and velocity over time, and graphed these parameters. Additionally, the air track allowed us to study both elastic and inelastic collisions, showcasing the conservation of momentum. Our results indicated that the velocity of the object on the air track remained constant, implying no acceleration.

Introduction

Linear motion refers to motion along a straight line and can be described mathematically using only one spatial dimension. In uniform linear motion, an object maintains a constant velocity and experiences zero acceleration. The use of an air track provides a precise means of investigating the laws of motion. A car or glider can move on a cushion of air, significantly reducing friction. As a result, the car moves with a constant acceleration, akin to free fall.

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The acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass. The direction of acceleration aligns with the direction of the resultant force. The air track, with its negligible frictional forces, enables accurate data collection in experiments involving inelastic collisions, impulse, change in momentum, conservation of momentum, conservation of energy, and more, on a two-meter-long track.

Materials and Methods

For this experiment, we conducted the following procedures in the laboratory:

Procedure

1. Adjust only the single screw at one end of the air track.
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2. Impulse the glider at one end of the track and measure its velocity at a point near each end of the track.
3. Repeat the velocity measurement by starting the glider at the other end of the track.
4. Compute the velocity change as a percentage of the initial velocity for each direction.
5. Check for any tilt by observing the effect of gravity on the measurements.
6. Adjust the leveling screws upwards or downwards based on the difference in the velocity change measurements.
7. Repeat the above steps until no further improvement in the correspondence of the two velocity change measurements can be made.

Results

The results of this experiment revealed that the distance covered by the glider at each time point was nearly constant, as demonstrated in the graphs. We computed the data based on the distance covered within each constant second (0.2 seconds). This experiment not only familiarized us with the air track setup but also taught us how to use an air track effectively. Additionally, we learned how to graphically represent our findings for distance, velocity, and acceleration. The insights gained from this lab report will aid us in applying these formulas to obtain accurate results in future experiments.

Discussion

The uniform linear motion experiment conducted on the air track yielded valuable insights into the principles of motion, impulse, and conservation of momentum. The constant velocity of the glider on the air track indicated that there was no acceleration involved. This aligns with the concept of uniform linear motion, where velocity remains constant over time.

Additionally, the use of the air track allowed us to investigate inelastic collisions. Since the air track minimizes friction, it provided an ideal environment to demonstrate the conservation of momentum before and after a collision. This aligns with the fundamental principle of physics, where the total momentum of a closed system remains constant unless acted upon by an external force.

The data collected during the experiment, including distance, velocity, and acceleration, was graphically represented. These graphs visually displayed the uniform nature of the glider's motion, emphasizing the constant velocity. Moreover, these graphical representations serve as valuable tools for analyzing and understanding the motion of objects in uniform linear motion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the uniform linear motion experiment conducted on the air track provided valuable insights into the principles of motion, impulse, and the conservation of momentum and energy. The results of the experiment confirmed the concept of uniform linear motion, as the velocity of the glider remained constant throughout its motion on the air track. This indicates zero acceleration, in line with the definition of uniform linear motion.

Furthermore, the air track's ability to minimize friction allowed us to study inelastic collisions, where momentum was conserved before and after the collisions. This experiment not only enhanced our understanding of physics principles but also improved our skills in data collection, analysis, and graphical representation.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this experiment, we recommend further exploration of the air track setup in various physics experiments. Additionally, students should continue to practice graphing and analyzing data to reinforce their understanding of uniform linear motion and its associated principles. Exploring different scenarios of collisions on the air track, including elastic collisions, would provide a comprehensive understanding of momentum conservation.

References

1. Physics Classroom. (2010). How to use an Air Track. [Web page]. Retrieved from www.classroomphysics.com
2. How to. (2012). How to use an Air Track (function and use). [Web page]. Retrieved from www.howtouse.com