Edexcel A-Level Physics Core Practical 1 Free Fall

Practise Edexcel A-Level Physics Core Practical 1 through free-fall acceleration measurements, light-gate velocity data and graphical determination of g.

Exam points

measure light-gate velocity from rod length and time, then repeat for each height
use s–t² or velocity-height graph gradients to determine acceleration due to g

[Maximum number: 7]

A student carries out an experiment to determine a value for g, the acceleration of free fall. A short wooden rod is released above a light gate. A timer connected to the light gate is used to measure the time taken for the wooden rod to pass through the light gate.

The experimental arrangement is shown.

Figure for Question 1.3.11 - Core Practical 1 - freely-falling object acceleration question 1 — Edexcel A-Level Physics AS

The student uses the equation $v^{2}=u^{2}+2 a s$ , where u=0, and a graphical method to determine a value for g.

(a)

State the additional measurements the student should take.

[ 2 ]

(b)

Describe how the velocity v of the wooden rod as it passes through the light gate can be determined accurately.

[ 2 ]

$\text { - } \quad v=\frac{\text { length of rod }}{\text { time (to pass through light gate) }}$

- Repeat (at each height) and (calculate) an average

(c)

Describe how the student can determine a value for g using a graphical method.

[ 3 ]

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1.3.11 - Core Practical 1 - freely-falling object acceleration question 1

Question (a)

Question (b)

Question (c)