How do I interpret and graph Newton's second law data?

In summary, the conversation is about a lab that needs to be completed in class. The student has a few questions about the lab, including how to find the total hanging weight and acceleration, and whether their answers for questions #2 and #3 are correct. They also have a question about creating a weight vs acceleration graph and which variable should go on which axis. The other person assures them that their answers look good and suggests putting the independent variable on the x-axis for the graph.
  • #1
AlexandraMarie112
16
1

Homework Statement


Hi, I am doing this lab this week, but before I do it I have a few questions. ( it has to be completed in class so I want to be prepared). First, these are the three pages of the lab questions:

Page1-http://i1076.photobucket.com/albums/w457/Hbjoi_Hggo/image.jpg1_zpss9wvh4bs.jpg
Page2-http://i1076.photobucket.com/albums/w457/Hbjoi_Hggo/image.jpg2_zpssutjmt4j.jpg
Page3-http://i1076.photobucket.com/albums/w457/Hbjoi_Hggo/image.jpg3_zpsqajn9s5j.jpg

On page 2, in the table. To find the total hanging weight and acceleration, for example for the first one , is my answer correct?: http://i1076.photobucket.com/albums/w457/Hbjoi_Hggo/image.jpg1_zpsgwgpizad.jpg
.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


On page 2, in the table. To find the total hanging weight and acceleration, for example for the first one , is my answer correct?: http://i1076.photobucket.com/albums/w457/Hbjoi_Hggo/image.jpg1_zpsgwgpizad.jpg

My other questions are for #2 and #3 in my lab, for #2 is the answer a) and for #3 is the answer b) ?

My last question is for #4 in the lab, it says to make a weight vs acceleration graph. I know that the slope of the line means the total mass so that will be my answer for #6, but when making the graph does the weight go on the x-axis and the acceleration on the y ?
 
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  • #2
All looks good.
For #4, it does not really matter which you assign to which axis, provided you use the appropriate method for finding the slope and interpret it correctly.
It is usual to put the independent variable (the one you control) on the X axis, and the standard regression equation for finding slope assumes you have done it that way. So then you just have to think whether the total mass is the slope or the inverse of the slope.
 
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1. What is Newton's second law?

Newton's second law is a fundamental principle in physics that states that the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass. In other words, the greater the force applied to an object, the greater its acceleration will be, and the more massive an object is, the less it will accelerate under the same force.

2. What is a Newton's second law lab?

A Newton's second law lab is a scientific experiment that allows students or researchers to measure and observe the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration. It typically involves using various objects of different masses and applying forces to them while measuring their resulting acceleration.

3. What materials are needed for a Newton's second law lab?

The materials needed for a Newton's second law lab may vary depending on the specific experiment, but typically include objects of different masses, a force measurement device (such as a spring scale or force sensor), a timer, and a track or surface for the objects to move along.

4. How do you calculate acceleration in a Newton's second law lab?

To calculate acceleration in a Newton's second law lab, you would use the equation a = F/m, where a is the acceleration in meters per second squared (m/s²), F is the net force applied in Newtons (N), and m is the mass of the object in kilograms (kg). This equation is derived from Newton's second law.

5. What are some real-world applications of Newton's second law?

Newton's second law has many real-world applications, including the design and operation of vehicles (such as cars, airplanes, and rockets), understanding the motion of objects in sports (such as a baseball being hit by a bat), and even in medical devices such as prosthetics. It is also essential in fields such as engineering, astronomy, and biomechanics.

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