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B r i d g e S e t
D y n a m i c s T r a c k
14
Dynamics Track
The Bridge Set can be used to construct dynam-
ics systems for studying motion. A straight track
can be constructed as shown in Figure 31.
Stretching a rubber band across two vertical
posts at the end of the track makes a good
bumper.
Measurement
Motion Sensor
The motion of the Mini-car can be measured
using a Motion Sensor (PS-2103). See Figure
32. Provided that the Motion Sensor is closer
than 15 cm to the rubber band, the Motion Sen-
sor will not “see” the rubber band and will
only register the position of the Mini-car.
Photogate with Pulley
If a mass hanging over a pulley is used to accelerate
the Mini-car, a Photogate can be used with the pulley
to measure the rotation of the pulley. The Photo-
gate/Pulley System (ME-6838) and the Table Clamp
(ME-8995) are available separately from PASCO. See
Figure 33.
Ramp and Photogate
A ramp is shown in Figure 34 with a Photo-
gate (ME-9204B) to measure the speed of the
Mini-car at the bottom of the ramp during a
“Conservation of Energy” experiment. The
Mini-car is supplied with a photogate flag that
blocks the Photogate’s infrared beam.
Rollercoaster Design
Challenges
Valley Design Challenge
Design a valley at the bottom of
which the Mini-car is going the
fastest possible without having
the Mini-car leave the track at
any point on the track. See fig-
ure 35.
Figure 31: Straight Dynamics Track
Rubber
band
Figure 32: Using a Motion Sensor with a Track
Figure 33: Using a Photogate with Pulley
Figure 34: Ramp with Photogate
Figure 35: Valley Design
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