Key learning points

1. A dynamics trolley has a constant acceleration down a steep ramp.
2. Acceleration = change of velocity ÷ time and change in velocity = final velocity – initial velocity
3. Light gates can improve accuracy of measurement of instantaneous velocity and reduces random errors.
4. Using video recording allows for accurate measurement of small time intervals.

Keywords

• Acceleration - The acceleration of an object is the change in velocity per second.

• Velocity - The velocity of an object is the change in displacement per second.

• Dynamics trolley - A dynamics trolley is a wheeled object used in experiments. It moves very smoothly over flat surfaces.

Common misconception