Lab 2 - FRICTION AND NEWTONS THIRD LAW

INSTRUCTIONS

This laboratory expects that you have viewed the Blackboard lab 2 module and completed the module prelab test. In this lab you will experimentally determine both the coefficients of static and kinetic friction for
an object. In addition you will explore the coefficients dependence upon mass and surface area. An
additional activity allows you to investigate action-reaction pairs.
Report: The provided coversheet/worksheet must be filled in and attached to your final written report
which is to be submitted online within 3 days of this laboratory.
Experiment 1
An object on an inclined plane can be used to determine k and s. You will be supplied with the following
apparatus only: a wooden plank, a 1 m ruler, a stopwatch, retort stands with clamps and three wooden blocks
(as shown below).

Theory
In the learning module PhysCast Measuring and with a ramp, Newtons 2nd law was applied to a
block on an incline plane (shown above) to explore two situations.
i)

ii)

For a stationary block the net acceleration down the plane is zero. Thus
= = cos
=
sin ; thus = tan

For a sliding block there is a constant net acceleration () down the plane. Thus
1
= sin cos = ; thus = cos ( sin )

Determining
Begin with the plank horizontal and a block at one end (choose wisely). Slowly incline the plank until the
block just begins to slide, when the static friction force has just reached its maximum value. Measure the
height of the end of the plank, the plank length and determine tan . Repeat the measurement three times
and record this data to 3 decimal places on your worksheet. Determine for each of the three blocks.
Determining
Design and carry out an experimental procedure for determining . The learning module PhysCast, the
above theory and the constant acceleration equations of motion will help. For each block repeat the
experiment three times and determine for each of the three blocks.

Experimental uncertainties
A supervisor will collate all of the labs classes data in a spreadsheet. Copy any 9 extra data sets into your lab
class data table then use the data and stat functions on your calculator to determine the mean and standard
deviation for and for each block. Investigate the table for possible outliers, if identified remove and
perform calculation again. Record final data standard deviation and mean rounded appropriately!

Data analysis
Sketch a graph showing the mean values of and determined by the class data as a function of mass
only and as a function of area only (two graphs). Include vertical error bars ( 1 ) and fit a straight line to
the data. From looking at your data and the values of the line of best fit slope, what can you conclude about
the effect of changing (i) mass and (ii) surface area on these values? Do these agree with your predictions?
Consult with a lab supervisor to see if they agree with your analysis and conclusions.

Experiment 2
In this experiment you investigate Newtons third law by,
i)
ii)

Measuring your weight using two commercial electronic scales (shown below)
Measuring the forces using the wireless force sensors and Sparkvue on your phone

Determining if weight and the normal force are action-reaction pairs

Step on the horizontal scale to record your weight. Carefully step on the sloped scale and record the weight.
In the free body diagram for the horizontal scale are and an action-reaction pair? In the free body
diagram for the sloped scale are and an action-reaction pair? Discuss your conclusion with a lab
supervisor.
Determining which forces are action-reaction pairs
Use the Sparkvue app on your phone to connect wirelessly to the force sensors. Use the suggested setup to
investigate and identify the actionreaction pairs.

Laboratory report
You must write a report about Experiment 1 only, following the format given below. Although you have
worked in a group to design, carry out the experiments, discussed the results and perhaps done some
analysis, the final report you submit online in blackboard must be an individual one (i.e. one completely
written by yourself in your own words). Your report must be written using the section headings listed
below. Please view the marking rubric prior to submission.
i)

Coversheet/Worksheet/Report as a single pdf file [1]

ii)

Aim a brief explanation of the goals of Experiment 1 [1]

iii)

Theory this should be a concise page description beginning with a free body diagram and
Newtons 2nd law to describe the forces on the object, its motion and equations that allow you to
determine the quantities of interest. Pay attention to terminology (force and coefficient are not
the same), equation formatting (Equation editor, subscripts, Greek letters) and appropriate
diagrams (do not cut and paste Google searched images; sketch your own!). [1.5]

iv)

Method this should be a concise page description of what you actually did in your own
words. You may find it helpful to include a physical diagram or photograph of the apparatus.
Pay attention to terminology and be clear and systematic with your descriptions. [1.5]

v)

Results A short paragraph that refers to the completed lab class data table on your worksheet
(do not duplicate) comparing your measurements to the classes and outlining any outliers with
explanation as to why they have been identified. Detailed calculations are not required. [1.5]

vi)

Analysis A short paragraph that refers to the two sketched graphs on your worksheet (do not
duplicate). Describe what is plotted, what the error bars mean and how you choose to draw a
straight line fit, HINT: what do the error bars mean? [1.5]

vii)

Conclusion A short paragraph that contrasts your predictions with the experimental
measurements. Discusses the values and behaviour of . Suggest how the experimental accuracy
might be improved. [2].