Demo: Newton's First Law Using Vector Display

This demonstration uses a Smart Cart Vector Display to see the forces and accelerations.

A body at rest remains at rest: Put masses in the cart, jerk the track, and the cart stays at rest. A body in motion remains in motion: Push the Smart Cart with a Vector Display on a level track. The force and acceleration only show on the display when being pushed. A body in motion remains in motion unless acted upon by an external net force: Push the cart on a level track but put an obstacle in the cart's way. The force/acceleration is in the forward direction while being pushed and then the force/acceleration is backward and constant after the cart’s initial collision with the obstacle.

Grade Level: College • High School

Subject: Physics

Teacher Files

Featured Equipment

Blue Smart Cart Demonstration Kit

The Blue Smart Cart Demonstration Kit comes with a Blue Smart Cart and all the accessories you need to perform amazing physics demonstrations in kinematics and dynamics.

Red Smart Cart Demonstration Kit

The Red Smart Cart Demonstration Kit comes with a Red Smart Cart and all the accessories you need to perform amazing physics demonstrations in kinematics and dynamics.

Smart Cart Vector Display

The Smart Cart Vector Display adds visual vectors to your Smart Cart for force, acceleration, or velocity. Connect it to the Smart Cart’s accessory port to visualize vectors in real time!

Support

Many lab activities can be conducted with our Wireless, PASPORT, or even ScienceWorkshop sensors and equipment. For assistance with substituting compatible instruments, contact PASCO Technical Support. We're here to help.
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Source Collection: Lab #05