Question

Part F

For both Tracker experiments, calculate the average vertical acceleration, where the time period is t = 0.10 second to t = 1.00 second. Consider only the magnitude of the vertical velocity in the calculations. Record your results to three significant figures.

Comment: How does the average acceleration of the two balls compare to the theoretical value of -9.81 meters/second2, and how do the accelerations of the two balls compare to each other?

small ball Initial Vertical Velocity -1.32 Final Vertical Velocity -9.61
large ball Initial Vertical Velocity -1.36 Final Vertical Velocity -9.07

Answer 1

The average vertical acceleration of the small ball is -9.19 m/s², and the average vertical acceleration of the large ball is -8.96 m/s². Both of these values are slightly less than the theoretical value of -9.81 m/s². The acceleration of the small ball is greater than the acceleration of the large ball.

Step-by-step explanation:

The difference in the accelerations of the two balls can be explained by the fact that the small ball has a greater mass than the large ball. This means that the small ball has a greater gravitational force acting on it, resulting in a greater acceleration.

What other factors affect acceleration?

Other factors that can affect acceleration include friction, air resistance, and the object's initial velocity. Friction can act in the opposite direction of the force, reducing the acceleration of the object. Air resistance can also slow down an object's acceleration by pushing against the object. Finally, an object's initial velocity can affect its acceleration, as it can take some time for the object to reach its maximum acceleration.