Error Analysis
Recommended for grades 11–14.
Introduction
In Experiment 1, Motion on an Incline, you may have noticed that the slope of the v-t graph, which we call acceleration, increased as the height of the ramp increased. It seems reasonable that the maximum value of the acceleration could be obtained when the ramp was in a vertical position. In this experiment, you will use different apparatus to determine the acceleration of a freely falling object. Once you have done this, you will address the following questions:
- How do I decide if the value I obtained is “close enough” to the accepted value?
- If I were to repeat the experiment several times, within what range would I expect my values to fall?
This experiment affords you the opportunity to understand variations in experimentally determined data.
Objectives
In this experiment, you will
- Determine the value of the acceleration of a freely falling object.
- Compare your value with the accepted value for this quantity.
- Learn how to describe and account for variation in a set of measurements.
- Learn how to describe a range of experimental values.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
Additional Requirements
You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?
Download Experiment Preview
The student-version preview includes:
- Step-by-step instructions for computer-based data collection
- List of materials and equipment
Note: The experiment preview of the computer edition does not include essential teacher information, safety tips, or sample data. Instructions for Logger Pro and other software (such as LabQuest App or TI handheld software, where available) are on the CD that accompanies the book. We strongly recommend that you purchase the book before performing experiments.
Standards Correlations
No standards correlations for this experiment.
Included in the Lab Book
Vernier lab books include a CD with word-processing files of the student instructions, essential teacher information, suggested answers, sample data and graphs, and more.