Northern Illinois University Physics Department Physics 253 ✓ Solved

Northern Illinois Universityphysics Departmentphysics 253 Basic Mech

In this experiment a sphere, disk, and cylinder are rolled down an inclined plane with a raised guide to keep it on the track. Two photogates are positioned over the track to measure the velocity of each object at the position of each photogate. Each photogate only records the elapsed time between when the object enters and leaves the photogate.

The experimenter must determine the width d of the object as seen by the photogate detector to determine the velocity through each photogate.

Theory

Velocity is the time rate of change of position of an object. If the width, d, of an object and the time, t, it takes to pass a point are both known, the average velocity is v_ave = d/t. Angular velocity is the time rate of change of the angle of a rotating object, measured in radians per second (rad/sec). For an object that rolls without slipping, the angular velocity is related to its linear velocity as v = ωR.

The resistance of an object to a force (the inertia of an object) is caused by the object’s mass. The resistance of an object to a torque is caused by the object’s moment of inertia, which is related to the object’s mass and how far the mass is from the axis of rotation: I = mr².

Objects in motion possess kinetic energy K. If the object is rolling, it has kinetic energy due to the forward motion of its center of mass, K_CM, and its rotation, K_rot. The translational kinetic energy is based on the mass and velocity: K_CM = (1/2)mv². Rotational kinetic energy about the center of mass is based on the moment of inertia and angular velocity: K_rot = (1/2)Iω².

Using conservation of energy, we have: mgh_initial + (1/2)I_initial + K_initial = mgh_final + (1/2)I_final + K_final. This can be rearranged to solve for I (moment of inertia) about the center of mass.

Data Collection

1. Measure the mass and diameter of each object. Record this in your logbook.

2. Measure the height of the track at each photogate. This gives you h_final and h_initial.

3. Carefully measure the distance between the photogates (approximately 80 cm apart) to get L.

4. Put a short strip of paper tape on the track to serve as a start point 10 cm up the track from the first photogate. Measure the height of this point: this gives you h_start.

5. Measure the distances of each object's interruption from the photogate and compare.

6. Start the Logger Pro program, releasing the sphere from rest at the starting point. Record times and repeat this measurement six times.

Analysis

1. Find CMI for the sphere, disk, and cylinder using the appropriate formulas.

2. Calculate the theoretical values of CMI for the objects and compute the percent error.

3. Comment on accuracy and perform a race to determine the fastest object.

4. Explain observed discrepancies and outcomes of the experiments.

Paper For Above Instructions

The experiment conducted in the Physics 253 Basic Mechanics course investigated the rolling motion of three different objects: a sphere, a disk, and a cylinder. The primary objective was to measure their velocity as they descend an inclined plane, utilize photogates for data collection, and analyze the moment of inertia and its implications on rolling motion principles.

The experiment was designed to derive and apply theoretical concepts related to velocity and moment of inertia. As objects rolled down the ramp, we measured their times using photogates, which were strategically placed to capture the transition of the objects. This setup allowed us to calculate the average velocity of each object through the formula: average velocity = distance/time (v_avg = d/t).

Initially, we measured key physical properties of each object — mass and diameter. This data was necessary to calculate their moment of inertia using the equation I = (1/2)mr² for a disk and cylinder, while for a sphere it is I = (2/5)mr². Additionally, the height of the inclined plane at each photogate was recorded to ascertain the gravitational potential energy converted to kinetic energy.

During the data collection phase, multiple trials were performed for each object to ensure accuracy and reliability of the results. The distance between the photogates was approximately 80.3 cm, and the starting point was marked precisely at 10 cm from the first photogate. Notably, the width of the objects as detected by the photogate was meticulously noted, essential for calculating velocity accurately.

The velocities recorded were interpreted in the context of rotational motion. Utilizing equations for conservation of energy, we established a relationship between the gravitational potential energy at the top of the ramp and the kinetic energy at the bottom. Notably, Equation (6) provides a method for calculating moment of inertia based on energy conservation: mgh_initial + (1/2)I_initial = (1/2)I_final.

Upon conducting the experiment, we observed first the measured values of CMI (Coefficient of Moment of Inertia) for the sphere, disk, and cylinder. The results indicated the effectiveness of the rolling motion principles, and the derived values were compared to theoretical predictions to compute percent errors. For instance, the experimental CMI for the sphere was compared to its theoretical value, which involved calculating how closely our results aligned with classical mechanics predictions.

Next, we evaluated the timing data collected from the photogates to practically determine which object reached the bottom of the ramp first, thereby illustrating the concept of inertia. In our trials, the sphere consistently outpaced the other objects, affirming the theoretical prediction that lower moments of inertia contribute to faster acceleration.

Notably, discrepancies observed among trials were analyzed. As hypothesized, factors such as slight variations in measurement, friction between the rolling surface, and the characteristics of the materials involved could affect the experimental outcomes. The discussion culminated in reflecting on which object emerged as the fastest and the principles underlying this result—mainly the relationship between linear speed and moment of inertia.

Finally, graphical representations through diagrams would illustrate the forces involved, corroborated by Newton's second law. These free body torque diagrams were employed to visualize the forces and torques acting on each object, reinforcing the learning objectives aligned with practical physics theories.

In conclusion, our experiment successfully demonstrated important physical principles related to rolling motion, notably the dynamics of inertia and energy conservation. Given the systematic approach to measuring and analyzing the results, the exploration of these mechanical concepts solidified understanding and application of theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.

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