The Inclined Plane
An inclined plane is a simple machine with no moving parts. It is
simply a straight slanted surface.
ACTIVITY ONE:
What happens to the amount of work needed to move a resistance (weight)
when the distance of the inclined plane increases?
PREDICTION: Record your prediction before you begin the experiment.
MATERIALS:
Spring scale
Weights (100g, 200g)
Equipment to make a slanted straight surface ( E.G. 1 metre and 30 cm
rulers, tub lids, planks)
PROCEDURE:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Construct an inclined plane.
Put a weight on the lower end of the plane.
Attach the spring scale to the weight
Slowly move the weight up the inclined plane to rest at the top.
Read the spring scale as you move the weight. Record the amount of
force (newtons) needed to move the weight.
6. Next replace the plane with another flat surface of varied length.
7. Repeat steps 2 to 8.
8. Record your findings using a table
Length of inclined
plane
Weight
Amount of resistance
CONCLUSION: What conclusions can be made about the amount of work
needed to move a weight when the distance of the inclined plane increases? Refer to
your prediction. What differences/similarities were there between your prediction and
your findings?
The Inclined Plane
An inclined plane is a simple machine with no moving parts. It is
simply a straight slanted surface.
ACTIVITY TWO:
What happens to the amount of work needed to move a resistance (weight)
when the angle of the inclined plane increases?
PREDICTION: Record your prediction before you begin the experiment.
MATERIALS:
Spring scale
Weights (100g, 200g)
Equipment to make a slanted straight surface ( E.G. 1 metre and 30 cm
rulers, tub lids, planks)
PROCEDURE:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Construct an inclined plane
Put the weight on the lower end of the plane.
Attach the spring scale to the weight
Slowly move the weight up the inclined plane to rest at the top.
Read the spring scale as you move the weight. Record the amount of
force (newtons) needed to move the weight.
6. Increase the angle (steepness) of the plane
7. Repeat steps 2 to 8.
8. Record your findings.
Angle of Plane
(approx.)
Weight
Amount of resistance
CONCLUSION:
What conclusions can be made about the amount of work needed to move a resistance
when the angle of the inclined plane increases? What differences/similarities were there
between your prediction and your findings?
The Inclined Plane – Activity One
Prediction:
Findings:
Length of inclined
plane
Conclusion:
Weight
Amount of resistance
The Inclined Plane – Activity Two
Prediction:
Findings:
Angle of Plane
(approx.)
Conclusion:
Weight
Amount of resistance