Worksheet Title: P04 – Atwood Machine

1 (c)

𝟏
Plot a graph of 𝒕𝟐 against (NB – NA), if a straight line is obtained then
P/h will be the gradient and Q will be the vertical intercept.

Linearising equation and deriving expressions that equate gradient to P/h

and vertical intercept to Q respectively. [1]

P / h = gradient = 0.11667 s-2

P = 0.11667  64.7 = 7.55 cm s−2

0.470 = 0.11667 (29.0) + Q

Q = 0.470 - 3.383
= – 2.91 s–2

Value of P calculated correctly with units (s-2) and

value of Q calculated correctly with units (s-2). [1]

[4]
 Scales must be chosen so that
the plotted points occupy at Equation of trendline to be
least half the graph grid in both shown. [1]
x and y directions. [1]

𝟏 y = 0.1167x - 2.9127
/s-2 R² = 0.9958
𝒕𝟐
1.550

1.450
All observations must be
plotted. Work to an
1.350 accuracy of half a small
square.
1.250

1.150 Points are scattered evenly

on both sides of the best fit
1.050 line.

0.950

0.850

0.750

Scales must be labelled with

0.650
the quantity which is being
plotted. [1]
0.550

0.450

0.350
26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40
(NB - NA)

2
(d)
✓ There is no anomalous point as all plotted points follow the trend of the
best fit line.
OR
✓ There is an anomalous point as it does not follow the trend of the best fit
line.
OR
✓ There is an anomalous point as it lies relatively far from the best fit line,
compared to other points.

Anomalous data/results, if any, must be identified. Appropriate justification must be

given. Otherwise, comment on absence of anomalous data.

[1]

(e) (i)

✓ As t measured gets progressively less as NB – NA increases, the

percentage uncertainty of t will increase to ≈ 25% which is significant.
✓ Friction between the hooks and thread prevents the cases from moving
smoothly, leading to incorrect t being measured.

[1]

(ii)

✓ Increase the height h through which case B falls to increase the time t
OR use data logger with light gates to reduce the uncertainty in the
experiment.
✓ Use a fishing line instead of the thread or a pulley instead of the hook
to reduce friction or other similar arguments.

[1]