Physlet Illustration: Pulling a Block Horizontally

 

 

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F = Newtons m = kg 
A block is being pulled by a constant force across a frictionless floor, as shown. The force on the box is represented by the black arrow. The velocity is given in m/s, and the times shown are in seconds. Adjust the mass (5 kg < m < 200 kg) and/or the pulling force (-1000 N < F < 1000 N), and measure the block's acceleration. How can you verify that it obeys Newton's Second Law?

Hints

  1. Measure acceleration by finding the change in velocity over a specific time interval.
  2. How should the acceleration change as you vary the pulling force for a constant mass?
  3. How should the acceleration change as you vary the mass for a constant pulling force?

Reference

See Walker, Section 5-3

Illustration written by Steve Mellema and Chuck Niederriter