THE APPLICATION OF ATWOOD MACHINE AND TRACKER ANALYSIS FOR CLASSROOM PURPOSE IN UNDERSTANDING RECTILINEAR MOTION

Abstract

This study examines the kinetics of rectilinear motion in Atwood machines, with a specific emphasis on nonaccelerated and uniformly accelerated motion. The experimental configuration entails an Atwood machine equipped with a meticulously calibrated system, which includes a motion tracker for accurate data acquisition. During the study of the initial trial, we observed unanticipated shifts from consistent acceleration to nonaccelerated motion, which posed a challenge to our initial hypotheses. The interaction between forces and gravity in successive trials unveiled intricate dynamics, which enhanced the comprehension of the experimental system. The impact of extra masses on the acceleration of the hanging mass was methodically investigated. The results demonstrated a clear relationship between the mass of the extra load and acceleration. As each additional mass was added, the time it took for the first mass to reach the light gate decreased. The careful manipulation of time intervals yielded distinct observations on the influence of extra masses on the overall dynamics of the Atwood machine. These findings not only enhance our fundamental comprehension of forces and motion, but also provide a helpful pedagogical tool for physics learners. The research elucidates the complex correlation between extra masses and acceleration, establishing a basis for further investigation and theoretical enhancement in the field of rectilinear motion.

Keywords: Rectilinear motion, atwood machine, tracker analysis, forces