1.3 (a)

Class Experiment 1

Efficiency of an inclined plane. Use a trolly with a large mass, which is attached to a smaller mass, by a string, over a pulley attached to one end of a ramp. Angle the ramp at 10 degrees and adjust the small mass until it just pulls it up the ramp (at constant speed). Repeat this for different angles up to 90 degrees.

Analysis

Calculate the useful work done which is the GPE. Calculate the work done by W.D. = Fxcosθ. Then calculate the efficiency of the ramp, plot a graph of efficiency against angle of ramp.

Equipment

1x ramp, 1x massive trolley, 1x pulley, 1x various masses and 1x protractor

Safety

Make sure the falling mass is not going to land on any feet.

Syllabus

Motion, Energy & Charge