Question

An investigation was done to find the velocity of a ball as it rolled across a relatively flat surface. The displacement of the ball was recorded every 0.5 seconds for 5.0 seconds. The resulting graph was made of the data.

Displacement vs time of a rolling ball 35 2.5 1.5 0.5 Time (seconds)

Based on the information given here, answer the following about the investigation.

1. Write a possible hypothesis that could have been used for this investigation.

2. What were the independent and dependent variables?

3. What are some possible sources of error?

3. What can be concluded from the data? (slope calculation must be included along with your conclusions)

Answer 1

A) The possible Hypothesis that can be used here is that the net force on the ball is zero and it moving in straight line. B) Independent longrightarrow Time, mass Dependent longrightarrow Displacement, acceleration C) i) The error can be done while measuring time. ii) The error can be done while measuring displacement. D) Conclusion: The velocity is constant and net force is zero. Slope = 2 - 0/3.5 - 0 slope = 0.571 gives velocity