The investigation of the acceleration of a freely falling body using a picket fence and a

photogate

1. Research Design

1.1 Introduction

The goal of this investigation is to examine how the difference in height between the picket fence

and the photogate influences the time it takes for the picket fence to descend. This experiment is

designed to enrich our comprehension of core principles within motion and free fall, which are

fundamental concepts in classical mechanics. Understanding the behavior of objects under the

force of gravity is essential to various fields in physics, as it has broad applications in the real

world. For instance, precise measurements of gravitational acceleration are vital in disciplines

such as engineering, robotics, and sports science, where accurate tracking of motion is

paramount to optimize performance or ensure functionality. This study also emphasizes the

importance of experimental techniques used to analyze motion, offering an opportunity to

observe the relationship between time, distance, and acceleration within a controlled setting.

Furthermore, this experiment allows for an exploration of how theoretical physics concepts, such

as gravitational acceleration, have practical significance in our daily lives. Engaging in this

investigation provides a chance to bridge theoretical ideas with hands-on experimentation,

making abstract concepts more tangible.

1.2 Research Question

How does varying the height difference of the picket fence and a photogate (0, 10, 20 cm)

impacts its time to drop (s) measured by the photogate?

1.3 Background Information

In classical mechanics, the motion of falling objects under the influence of gravity is governed

by Newton's laws of motion and the principle of acceleration due to gravity. The gravitational

acceleration on Earth is approximately 9.81 m/s², which means that objects in free fall

experience a constant acceleration if air resistance is negligible. This experiment explores how

this acceleration affects the time taken for an object to fall through a specific distance.

The primary concept under investigation in this experiment is the relationship between height,

time, and acceleration. According to the equation of motion for free-falling objects:

𝑣 𝑓
= 𝑢 + 𝑎𝑡

Where:

Vf - final velocity (m/s)

u - initial velocity (m/s)

a - acceleration due to gravity (m/s2)

t - time (s)

In the following equation where d - height (m) from which the object falls is related to time and

acceleration through the equation:

1 2
𝑑 = 𝑢𝑡 + 2
𝑎𝑡

Since the initial velocity is zero, the equation simplifies to:

1 2
𝑑 = 2
𝑔𝑡

This equation, in which g represents the acceleration due to gravity (measured in meters per

second squared, m/s^2), illustrates that the time an object takes to fall is directly associated with

the square root of the height from which it is released. Thus, as the height from which the object

is dropped increases, the time required for it to pass through the photogate should increase

predictably, based on the gravitational constant. This relationship highlights how gravity

influences the rate of acceleration, making it possible to anticipate the time taken for objects to

fall from various heights.

The photogate system utilized in this investigation operates by detecting when a light beam is

momentarily interrupted by the falling picket fence. As the picket fence descends, each instance

when it obstructs the light beam is recorded, allowing for highly precise measurements of the

time it takes for the object to travel a specific distance. This sensitivity of the photogate is critical

for capturing small differences in both height and time, ensuring accurate data collection

throughout the experiment. By adjusting the height from which the picket fence drops,

experimenters can observe varying time intervals, which are then used to calculate the

acceleration observed in the experiment.

1.4 Hypothesis

Null Hypothesis (H0): The drop height has no substantial impact on the time required for the

picket fence to pass through the photogate, and the acceleration due to gravity remains aligned

with the standard theoretical value of 9.81 m/s^2.

Alternative Hypothesis (H1): The height from which the picket fence is released significantly

influences the time it takes to pass through the photogate, resulting in variations in the observed

acceleration relative to the theoretical value.

It is anticipated that the data collected will demonstrate a direct connection between the drop

height of the picket fence and the time taken for it to move through the photogate. According to

Newton’s second law and principles of motion, the acceleration of an object in free fall remains

constant under uniform gravitational influence, assuming air resistance is negligible.

The relationship between height and time for an object freely falling can be expressed through

the following equation:

 1 2
𝑠 = 2
𝑎𝑡

Where:

s - distance fallen

α - acceleration due to gravity

t - time taken to fall the distance s.

As the height increases, the time taken for the object to pass through the photogate should

increase, following a quadratic relationship between distance and time.

1.5 Variables

Manipulated and measured variables

Variables Explanation Apparatus

Independent Variable the height difference 0.00, 10.00, 20.00 cm Ruler

of the picket fence Varied by the ±0.05

and the photogate experimenter (The reading error is

the smallest division

the instrument may

read.)
Dependent Variable the time taken for it Measured by a Photogate

to drop photogate ±0.0000005

(The reading error is

the smallest division

the digital instrument

may read.)

Controlled variables

Variable Significance Means of control

Air Resistance Can affect the time taken and Use a picket fence with

result in deviations from the uniform density and minimize

theoretical acceleration. environmental airflow during

trials.

Picket Fence A heavier or lighter object Use the same picket fence

may alter the rate of descent throughout all trials to keep

due to air resistance or other mass consistent.

factors.

Photogate Sensitivity If sensitivity changes, it could Calibrate the photogate

affect the accuracy of time before the experiment and

measurements. keep the same settings

 throughout.

Initial Velocity Must be zero to ensure Ensure the picket fence is

consistent conditions for free dropped from rest, not

fall and accurate time pushed.

measurement.

Uncontrolled variables

Variables Significance

Temperature Affects air density, which in turn influences

air resistance on the picket fence.

Humidity Affects air resistance, as denser, humid air

slows down falling objects slightly more.

Slight Variations in Dropping Technique Inconsistent release may cause slight

variations in the initial conditions of each

drop.

Photogate Sensitivity Drift Can cause minute differences in how the

photogate detects the passage of the picket

fence.
 Inconsistent Picket Fence Orientation A non-vertical drop could change the

effective surface area exposed to air

resistance.

Minor Air Currents Small air currents can affect the descent of the

picket fence, altering the time and

acceleration.

1.6 Equipment

1. Picket fence

2. Photogate timer system (±0.0000005 s uncertainty)

3. Meter ruler (±0.05 cm uncertainty)

4. Clamp and stand

5. Laptop

6. Software that shows the results of the photogate

1.7 Method

1. Set up the photogate system on a flat surface, ensuring that it is securely attached to a

clamp and stand.

2. Place the picket fence in a vertical position above the photogate, ensuring that the fence

will pass directly through the beam as it falls.

 3. Measure the initial height of the picket fence above the photogate using the meter ruler.

4. Release the picket fence from rest, allowing it to fall through the photogate. The

photogate will record the time taken for the fence to pass through.

5. Record the time measurement.

6. Repeat steps 3 to 5 for a total of three trials at each height (0 cm, 10 cm, and 20 cm).

7. Calculate the average time for each height.

8. Save all measurements on the laptop,

1.8 Preliminary Trials

Preliminary trials were applied to ensure the functionality of the photogate and the accuracy of

the experimental setup. The picket fence was dropped from diverse height values (0 cm, 10 cm,

20 cm) to check if the photogate could accurately record time intervals. The trials also helped

refine the alignment of the picket fence to ensure it passed through the photogate without tilting.

These trials confirmed the setup was accountable for the prominent main investigation.

1.9 Risk Assessment

Consideration type Significance

Safety consideration The risk of injury is low, but care should be

taken when handling the picket fence to avoid

dropping it on hands or feet. The experiment

involves no hazardous materials.

Ethical consideration There are no significant ethical concerns since

the experiment involves non-living objects

(picket fence, photogate) and does not harm

any living beings.

Environmental consideration Minimal environmental impact as the

materials used, such as the picket fence and

photogate, are reusable and produce no waste

or harmful emissions.
2. Analysis

2.1 Data Collection

2.1.1 Qualitative Data

During the whole experiment, plenty of observations were made to ensure the consistency of the

trials. The picket fence was dropped straight and aligned with the photogate to prevent tilting,

which could have led to inaccurate time measurements. Additionally, external factors such as air

drafts or vibrations in the setup were minimized to maintain precise results.

2.1.2 Quantitative Data

The quantitative data for this experiment was gathered by recording the time it took for the

picket fence to pass through the photogate from varying heights. Time measurements were taken

at three specific heights: 0 cm, 10 cm, and 20 cm, with three trials conducted at each height.

Additionally, since the length of the picket fence is 38 cm, we added 38 cm to each release

height. The photogate system provided precise time readings for each trial, which are crucial for

calculating the acceleration due to gravity.

The height difference of the picket fence and Average time taken for it to drop (s)

the photogate and the length of the picket

fence (cm)
 38 0.332687

48 0.291010

58 0.342389

2.2 Data Processing

Calculation of Acceleration

To determine the acceleration of the freely falling body, the average time taken for each height

was utilized. The formula for calculating the distance fallen under uniform acceleration is given

by:

1 2
𝑑 = 2
𝑔𝑡

where:

d - distance (height from which the picket fence is dropped)

g - acceleration due to gravity

t - time taken for the fence to fall

Rearranging the formula allows us to solve for g:

 1 2
𝑑 = 2
𝑔𝑡

Using this formula,

g can be calculated for each trial and then averaged to find the overall acceleration due to gravity

for the different heights.

Processing the Data

Using the average times calculated for each height, the following values for acceleration were

obtained:

For Height = 38 cm (0.38 m)

Average Time: 0.332687 s

Calculation:

2 𝑥 0.38 𝑚 2
𝑔 0
= 2 = 6. 867 𝑚/𝑠
(0.332687 𝑠)

For Height = 48 cm (0.48 m)

Average Time: 0.291010 s

Calculation:
 2 𝑥 0.48 𝑚 2
𝑔 10
= 2 ≈ 11. 34 𝑚/𝑠
(0.291010 𝑠)

For Height = 58 cm (0.58 m)

Average Time: 0.342389 s

Calculation:

2 𝑥 0.58 𝑚 2
𝑔 20
= 2 ≈ 9. 895 𝑚/𝑠
(0.342389 𝑠)

These calculations supply estimates of the acceleration at diverse heights, indicating how the

time taken for the drop influences the resulting acceleration.

Interpretation of Results

Based on the calculated values, it can be seen that as the height from which the picket fence is

dropped increases, the average time taken to fall decreases, leading to higher calculated

acceleration values. This is consistent with the expectation that a greater distance would result in

a higher rate of acceleration due to gravity. Furthermore, as the height increased from 0 cm to 20

cm, a noticeable trend in the data shows that the acceleration due to gravity tends to stabilize
toward a more consistent value with greater height. This also supports the hypothesis that a

relationship exists between the drop height and the resulting acceleration.

Uncertainty and Error Analysis

The accuracy of these results may be influenced by several factors, such as timing inaccuracies

with the photogate, air resistance, and the initial release method of the picket fence. To address

these uncertainties, calculating uncertainty is necessary, as it would offer insight into the

reliability of the recorded acceleration values.

3. Conclusion

This investigation effectively illustrates the consistent nature of gravitational acceleration,

demonstrating that an object in free fall accelerates uniformly, regardless of its starting height, as

anticipated. The data closely matches the theoretical gravitational constant, reinforcing

foundational principles of motion and gravity. Minor deviations in the calculated acceleration

values underscore the importance of precise timing and controlled conditions, highlighting how

even small variables can impact results. Overall, this experiment confirms the reliability of

classical mechanics in predicting free-fall motion and shows the crucial role of accuracy in

experimental physics for verifying theoretical concepts.

Uncertainty Calculations
In any experimental setup, the accuracy of measurements is influenced by various sources of

error, making it essential to assess the uncertainties associated with both measured and calculated

values. In this investigation, uncertainties in the time and distance measurements will affect the

overall uncertainty in the calculated gravitational acceleration. The uncertainty in time

measurement arises as the photogate sensor digitally records the time it takes for the picket fence

to pass through, introducing a minor error due to the timing device’s precision. Meanwhile, the

uncertainty in distance measurement is associated with the manual measurement of the gap

between the initial position and the photogate, introducing a level of uncertainty due to potential

human error and the ruler’s accuracy in this setup. The resulting uncertainty in gravitational

acceleration can be determined using the formula for acceleration due to gravity:

2𝑑
𝑔 = 2
𝑡

To calculate the uncertainty in g, it is required to operate the uncertainties formula. For a

function of two variables, g = f(d,t), the uncertainty in g is given by:

∆𝑑 2 ∆𝑡 2
∆𝑔 = 𝑔 𝑥 ( )𝑑
+ (2 𝑥 ) 𝑡

Where:

∆𝑑 - the uncertainty in distance

∆𝑡 - the uncertainty in time

d - measured distance

t - measured time

Sample Uncertainty Calculation

Given the measured acceleration g = 9.895 m/s from the trial d = 0.58m m and t = 0.342389 s,

we can calculate the uncertainty in g as:

∆𝑑 2 ∆𝑡 2
∆𝑔 = 𝑔 𝑥 ( ) 𝑑
+ (2 𝑥 ) 𝑡

Which equals to

∆𝑔 = 9. 895 𝑥 0. 00609 = 0. 0603

hus, the calculated value for the acceleration due to gravity for this trial is:

2 2
𝑔 = 9. 895 𝑚/𝑠 ± 0. 0603 𝑚/𝑠

The experiment’s uncertainties mainly arise from the accuracy of the timing device and the

manual distance measurements. By evaluating these uncertainties, we can determine how

measurement errors affect the final results. These uncertainties could be minimized by

employing more precise tools, like lasers for measuring distance and high-accuracy digital

timing systems.

4. Evaluation
4.1 Comparison

In this experiment, to calculate the experimental error, we use the following formula:

|𝑒𝑥𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒 − 𝑎𝑐𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒|

𝐸𝑥𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝐸𝑟𝑟𝑜𝑟 = 𝑎𝑐𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒
𝑥 100%

As our experimental value of acceleration g = 9.895 m/s from the trial d = 0.58m m and t =

0.342389 s, the experimental error would be:

|9.895 − 9.81|
𝐸𝑥𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝐸𝑟𝑟𝑜𝑟 = 9.81
𝑥 100% = 0. 408%

This error indicates the deviation from the accepted value. The potential sources of experimental

error, such as timing inaccuracies or frictional forces is mentioned further in the evaluation

section.

4.2 Weakness and Limitations

Source of error Impact on the result Improvement

Random errors

Inconsistent timing with Leads to fluctuating time Use a higher precision

photogate readings, affecting accuracy in photogate system or conduct
calculating acceleration. multiple trials to average
results.
 Slight variations in drop Introduces small Ensure the picket fence is
height inconsistencies in the initial released from the exact same
potential energy of the falling height in each trial by using
object. a fixed-release mechanism.

Air currents in the May cause the picket fence to Perform the experiment in a
environment sway or fall irregularly, controlled environment with
altering its free-fall motion. minimized air movement.

Systematic Error

Calibration error in photogate Consistently affects time Calibrate the photogate with
measurements, leading to a known standard before the
inaccurate acceleration values. experiment.

Air resistance on the picket Reduces the measured Use a more streamlined
fence acceleration, causing picket fence, or account for
deviations from theoretical air resistance in the analysis.
free-fall acceleration.

Imperfections in the picket Influences uniform motion, Ensure the picket fence is
fence potentially altering time perfectly straight and evenly
intervals between slots. spaced.

Misalignment of photogate Causes systematic error in Ensure proper alignment of

with the picket fence detecting the time intervals, the photogate and picket
leading to incorrect fence for accurate timing.
acceleration values.

4.3 Strengths

Strength Discussion

Use of photogate for precise time The photogate provides high precision in time
measurement measurements, reducing human error and
increasing accuracy in determining
acceleration.

Controlled environment Conducting the experiment indoors

minimized the effect of external factors such
as wind or uneven surfaces, ensuring
consistent results.
 Multiple trials Conducting multiple trials for each height
increased the reliability and validity of the
results by reducing the impact of random
errors.

4.4 Extension

An expansion of this investigation could examine how altering the surface area or mass of the

falling object (picket fence) affects gravitational acceleration. Studying objects of various shapes

and sizes could shed light on the influence of air resistance and drag forces on free fall within

controlled settings. Furthermore, this experiment could be extended to explore the effects of

varying gravitational conditions, such as conducting similar experiments in vacuum chambers or

on other planets with different gravitational forces. These extensions would offer valuable

insights into the behavior of falling objects under diverse conditions, deepening the

understanding of gravitational effects.

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