A piece of card is released from rest at a height of 0.5m above a light gate. It falls freely and a computer measures the velocity as it passes through the light gate to be 3.10m/s. What is the acceleration due to gravity measured by this experiment?

This question can be solved using suvat equations, since the acceleration due to gravity is constant. First make a list of the variables given in the question;

s=0.5m

u=0ms-1 (since the card is released from rest)

v=3.1ms-1

a=?

We can then select a suvat equation containing these variables, which we can use to solve the problem. In this case we choose v2=u2+2as, as this contains only one unknown (a). Substituting the variables in, we get;

3.12=02+2a(0.5)

This simplifies to;

3.12=a

So the acceleration due to gravity measured in this experiment is 9.61ms-2.

HC
Answered by Hannah C. Physics tutor

1749 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between a scalar and a vector quantity?


A body of mass 2kg is travelling in a straight line along the x-axis. It collides with a second body of mass 3kg which is moving at -2m/s. The two bodies move off together at 3m/s. What is the initial velocity of the first body?


What are the SUVAT equations and how can I remember them?


Explain the forces involved in a pendulum set up.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences