Motion on an incline

Aim: To determine how the mass of an object affects its motion along an inclined path.

Apparatus: ball bearings of various sizes, electronic balance, straight track, blocks, stopwatch, and
meter rule

Diagram:

(Diagram should have a title here)

Method: Set up the apparatus as shown in the diagram above. Measure the angle of inclination of
the path. Measure and mark a path of length of 40cm on the track using the meter rule. Release a
ball bearing from the top of the track, timing simultaneously with the stopwatch. Record the time
taken for the ball bearing to travel the 40 cm. use the electronic balance to measure the mass of the
ball bearing. Record this mass, repeat this experiment using the four other ball bearings available.

Observations: (Ensure that table has a title)

Mass of ball bearing, m/kg Time taken, t/s Acceleration, a/ms-2

Graph: (Draw a graph of acceleration versus 1/mass)

Calculations:

 Use the gradient to calculate the frictional force exerted on the mass as it rolls down the
incline.

 Use the y-intercept to determine the angle of inclination, θ, of the track.

 Compare your experimental value of θ with the measured value using the equation:
Discussion:

 Explain the forces that affect motion on an incline

 Explain any anomalies in your experiment
 Use the percentage error value to determine the accuracy of your experiment.
 For your experiment state ONE of EACH of the following; error, precaution, assumption,
limitation.
 State One way in which the experiment could be improved.

Conclusion: (conclusions should be short and satisfy aim)