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Trial 3 - Lifting Wood

1. An inclined plane, a fancy word for a ramp, is a slanted surface used to raise an object. The inclined plane permits you to overcome a large amount of force (resistance) by applying a relatively small force through a longer distance to raise the object or load. Think about places that an inclined plane would be helpful. Make a list of common uses of inclined planes. Be prepared to share your thoughts with class.
   
   
2. Let's try lifting a block of wood a certain distance. First, you will lift a block of wood straight up. Place a screw hook into the end of wooden block. Attach a 10 cm of string to the hook and connect the force sensor to the other end of the string. Measure the distance between the floor and the seat of a chair with a meter stick. Record the distance.

   
   

3. Zero your force sensor. Refer to Technical Hints to zero the force sensor.

4. Start data collection. Refer to Technical Hints to record a single measurement. Lift the block of wood from the floor to the seat of the chair. Stop and save your graph. Refer to Technical Hints to save your graph.

   
   

   

5. Place a wooden ramp on the floor with one end resting on the seat of the chair. Measure and record the length of the ramp.

   
   

6. Place the wooden block attached to the force sensor on the ramp.

   

7. Zero your force sensor. Refer to Technical Hints to zero the force sensor. Start data collection.

8. Refer to Technical Hints to record a single measurement. Lift the block of wood on the ramp from the floor to the seat of the chair. Stop and save your graph. Refer to Technical Hints to save your graph. Be prepared to share your data collection results with the class.