Introduction

A ramp (also known as an inclined plane) is a slanted surface used to raise or lower objects. The sloping floor of a theater, a road over a mountain, and a ramp into a building are examples of ramps. In this experiment, you will use the force sensor built into a Sensor Cart to measure the force needed to lift an object and the force needed to pull the same object up a ramp. You will then calculate and compare work done in raising the object to the same height by lifting it and pulling it up a ramp.

Objectives

  • Measure force.
  • Compare forces.
  • Calculate work and efficiency.
  • Make conclusions using the results of the experiment.