PHYSICAL SCIENCE • FORCES & MOTION

Forces & Motion Investigation

Change the mass, applied force, and friction. Predict what will happen, run the test, and compare your prediction with the data.

Newton's 2nd Law F_net = ma

Set up the test

Choose an object and experimental conditions.

Object

Lab cart Visual choice only — the model uses translational motion.

Mass 1.00 kg

Applied force 5.0 N

Force mode

The applied force stays ON for the entire trial, so a positive net force makes the object keep speeding up.

Surface

Static μ

Kinetic μ

Preset coefficients are classroom modeling values, not claims about a specific real material.

Test duration 5.0 s

Make a prediction

Observe the motion

The track automatically scales to the test distance.

Applied force: ON A continuous force acts to the right for the entire trial.

START

0 m —

Time0.00 s

Position0.00 m

Velocity0.00 m/s

Acceleration0.00 m/s²

Applied force now5.00 N

Explain the forces

These values come directly from the physics model.

Weight, mg9.81 N

Normal force, N9.81 N

Max static friction0.49 N

Actual friction now0.29 N

Net force now4.71 N

Acceleration now4.71 m/s²

Run a test to compare your prediction with the model.

Show the math

Analyze the data

Switch graphs or download the complete trial data.

Position vs. Time Run a test to generate data.

Model boundary: The track is horizontal, so weight and the normal force cancel vertically. Horizontal acceleration occurs only when the horizontal forces do not balance. Objects are treated as translating bodies; rotational effects for the ball and wheel are intentionally not included so the investigation isolates Newton's 2nd Law and friction.

Download Investigation Worksheet