Assessed Experiment on the Efficiency of a Ramp

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Assessed Experiment on the Efficiency of a Ramp

Planning

========

I am investigating the efficiency of a ramp depending on the mass of

the load , the height of the ramp or the angle. I have chosen the

amount of load to be lifted up the ramp because I think I can get a

more accurate set of results this way. The ramp is a basic but very

effective way of moving objects to a greater height more easily than

simply lifting.

Fair Test

· I will take all of my results on the same day with the same

equipment and area.

· I will repeat my test three times for a more accurate test.

· I will pull the bucket along at the roughly same steady speed every

time.

· I will take the results myself so they will not differ.

A fair test is important in all investigations because otherwise the

results will not be reliable. A fair test should avoid being biased

and enable repeatability.

Prediction

The variable that I have chosen is the increase in masses and

therefore weight to the bucket. I would predict that as the mass

increases the force required to achieve a constant speed will also

increase. As the mass is increased the friction between the bucket and

the ramp increases. Gravity is a constant force on all masses the

incline is the same for each increase in mass. To overcome the

resistance of the inclined surface the force is greater for larger

masses.

If all things are equal that is gravity, the incline and speed. Then I

predict that for each doubling of the mass the force will have to

double.

Techniques and Safety considerations

· I will mark the ramp with a distinctive line to keep it inline with

desk in case it slips. This is to get more reliable results.

· To make sure the ramp does not slip I could put a door stop or wedge

in place.

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