Date:________________ Grade:

Physics 210L
Atwood’s Machine and Free Fall

Names:______________ Section:________________

Instructor:____________

A) Constant Total Mass 𝑀1 + 𝑀2

Trial 𝑀1 (g) 𝑀2 (g) 𝑎𝑒𝑥𝑝 (m/𝑠 2 ) 𝐹𝑛𝑒𝑡 = (𝑀2 − 𝑀1 )g (𝑀1 + 𝑀2 )𝑔 𝑎𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑜𝑟𝑦 (𝑚/𝑠 2 )

Run #1

Run #2

Run #3

Run #4

Run #5

Plot 𝑎𝑒𝑥𝑝 versus the net force. Draw the best fit line. Determine using linear regression,
the slope and the y-intercept along their errors. Deduce from the slope the total mass
and compare this result to the measured value 𝑀1 +𝑀2 . Comment.
B) Free Fall
1- Fill in the table with the velocity versus time data: (3 pts)

Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3

2- Plot the three graphs of Velocity vs. Time using the data collected (Attach your graphs to the report).
Using linear regression, calculate the slope of your three graphs
3- Find the average value of gravitational acceleration along with its rms error and compare to the
accepted value

4- What factors do you think may cause the experimental value to be difference from the accepted
value?

5- Sketch a graph of velocity vs. time for an object thrown up in the air. Explain.

6- Sketch a graph of velocity vs. time for an object falling from rest and experiencing air resistance.
Explain.