1G10.30 • Force, Mass, and Acceleration: Mass and a Scale

Photo shows the demonstration used at the University of Texas at Austin.

Instructions / Notes:

• A simple demonstration consisting of a spring which stretches, a 1 kg mass, a fisherman's spring scale, a 2 kg mass and Newton spring scale.
• Hang a 1 kg mass on the spring to show normal tension F_W when the mass is stationary.
• If you attempt to accelerate the 1 kg mass vertically - by pulling upwards on the spring - the length of the spring momentarily stretches.
• Alternatively, use the spring as a prop and manually stretch the mass/spring combo to show what would happen when the mass is accelerated upward.
• Two types of spring scales are provided for use with the larger 2 kg mass.

Demo Staff:

• Be sure to include a ring stand with the demo.

Video shows the demonstration used at the University of Texas at Austin

Last updated on July 25, 2024