Key learning points

1. A dynamics trolley has a steady acceleration down a steep ramp.
2. Acceleration = change of velocity ÷ time and change in velocity = final velocity – initial velocity
3. Light gates can improve accuracy of measurement of instantaneous velocity and reduces random errors.
4. For a fair test, total mass of the system must be kept constant.
5. A compensated ramp can counteract the effect of friction.

Common misconception

Keywords

• Compensated ramp - A ramp with a slope to counteract the effect of friction.

• Final velocity - The final velocity of an object is the velocity it finishes with after a phase of motion.

• Light gate - A light gate can be used to measure velocity. It uses an infrared beam to turn a timer on and off as an object passes through.

• Repeatable - Measurements are repeatable if they are very similar when the same procedure is carried out by the same person or team.

• Uniform acceleration - When the acceleration is constant, it is described as uniform acceleration.