2 PHYS 111

In this assessment  I had to write a report about an experiment me and my group conducted to find the relationship between mass and acceleration in a one dimensional motion system we used a chart with weights on it and ramp to test for it. One thing I could have done better on with the report is that I could have explained the variables and equations more and presented the data better   

In this Lab we had to investigate one dimensional motion with constant acceleration focusing on the equations and graphs that describe displacement and velocity over time. One thing I did well on with this assessment was that I was able to properly present my findings of the lad with the correct equation we used for the experiment the data was put in a easy to understand format    

The experiment aimed to investigate the coefficients of static and kinetic friction for different objects on both horizontal and inclined surfaces by understanding the relationship between forces, normal reaction and motion. We were able to qualify friction resistance and how it depends on surface orientation and material properties.  We measured static and kinetic friction on five different objects on both horizontal and inclined surfaces. On the horizontal surface we used a spring scale to pull each object until it started to move. We recorded the maximum force as static friction and measured the force needed to pull each object at constant speed for kinetic friction. On the inclined plane we gradually increased the height until each object started to slide to find the static friction and timed how long it took for each to start to slide down to calculate kinetic friction. All of our measurements were repeated for accuracy and our results were recorded. This experiment showed that static friction is higher than kinetic friction and that normal force can directly affect friction. The incline plane demonstrated how angle being changed can impact static friction. The experiment is important for understanding friction in real world uses like engineers do. Some questions I have are how materials or environmental factors can affect friction. To improve this lad if we were to do it again is to make sure to use more different materials that would provide deeper information.  

The lab experiment met its objectives with Work and Energy. It showed that energy transfer acts as a force facilitating movement defining work. by assessing the force and kinetic energy involved we gained insights into how work alters an object's position or energy.  I learn how to better understand and energy required on a horizontal or inclined surface. It also helps me put my thoughts to be effective on larger tasks that require a lot of recording and understanding especially when trying to rotate them in on time I would be interested in understanding how friction may be included and how it could impact things since everyone followed the necessary steps for correctness we probably wouldn't need to make any changes.

In this experiment, we demonstrated the work-energy theorem and verified energy conservation in a spring-mass system. In part 1 the spring constant was measured by hanging incremental masses (100 g to 500 g) on a spring and recording displacements. The force vs displacement was calculated and added to our data. In part 2 a 250 g mass was added, and the spring was displaced by 3 cm, 5 cm, and 7 cm, then released to oscillate vertically. The motion was recorded to analyze displacement, and energy calculations were done at the lowest point and 2 cm above equilibrium. The spring constant matched Hooke's Law, and total mechanical energy remained nearly constant, confirming energy conservation. Small discrepancies were due to air resistance and internal friction, causing the system to stop eventually. Sideways motion was minimized to avoid errors. The experiment successfully demonstrated the work-energy theorem and energy conservation. 

In this lab, you will simulate and analyze collisions in a 1D system using an exploration tool. Begin by selecting “Explore 1D,” enabling “Values,” and setting up two balls with specific masses and velocities, recording these in your data table while designating directions as positive or negative. For elastic collisions, set elasticity to 100%, run the simulation, and record final velocities (including signs) after each collision, repeating three times with constant masses. For inelastic collisions, set elasticity to 0%, input masses and velocities, run the simulation, and record final velocities, repeating three times. For partially elastic collisions, choose an elasticity value between 0% and 100%, set masses and velocities, run the simulation, and record final velocities, repeating three times. Throughout, ensure consistent mass values and accurately record velocity directions (positive or negative) to analyze momentum conservation and collision behavior.  Through this experiment, I learned that momentum is conserved in all collisions, while kinetic energy is conserved only in elastic collisions, with energy lost in inelastic and partially elastic collisions due to transformation into heat, sound, or deformation. The experiment highlighted how mass and velocity influence collision outcomes and demonstrated the role of elasticity in determining energy loss. Its significance lies in applying these principles to real-world scenarios like car crashes, sports, and engineering. New questions arose, such as how material properties, friction, or relativistic effects impact collisions. To improve the experiment, I suggest exploring 2D/3D collisions, varying object properties, introducing external forces, or using physical objects to study real-world dynamics.

This lab focused on rotational static equilibrium by analyzing torques. The assignment needed you to calculate the tension in a supporting cord to maintain equilibrium comparing expected and experimental values and addressing sources of error. I am proud of my work because I successfully applied the on torque and equilibrium to solve the problem carefully analyzed the data and considered factors like friction and moment of inertia that could impact the results. The systematic approach and attention to detail ensured accurate and meaningful conclusions.

This assignment was challenging due to its coverage of many scientific topics like carbon cycles, light behavior, energy sources, and tectonic plate dynamics. The need to analyze complex data sets, interpret graphs, and apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios required strong critical thinking and attention to detail. The question formats multiple choice, multi-select and constructed responses needed depth and understanding.