- #1
realslow
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Homework Statement
I did an experiment in which we gathered velocity-time data for a cart slowing down and speeding up on a ramp. The two acceleration values I calculated from the data were 0.4768m/s^2 and 0.4203m/s^2. Why are the values different (remember that there isn't any applied force in either direction)?
Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
Well... I was thinking that the initial velocity, right after the cart was pushed upwards towards the sensor, is higher than the initial velocity (0 m/s) when the car stopped and moved back down (away from the sensor). But then again, I'm not sure as to whether it would affect the acceleration values.
I was debating whether or not friction had an effect, but I can't think of why the friction would be different for the deceleration and acceleration of the cart..
I think I'm having trouble understanding the forces acting on the cart...
I would very much appreciate some help, thank you!