Page 70 - Physics

Physics for Secondary Schools

6. Present all the measurements in tabular form.

7. Now, remove the spring from the hard surface and attach it to the cushioned surface.
8. Repeat steps 3 to 6 while observing the surface deformation.

9. Present your results using Table 3.1.

Table 3.1

Object Spring readings Difference in reading
Hard surface Cushioned surface
Book
Fruit

Stone
10 g mass

30 g mass

Questions
(a) How can you accurately measure the force of gravity using spring balance.
(b) Compare the readings on the spring balance when used on the cushioned surface
and when the spring is attached to the hard surface. Account for the difference.
(c) How is the absorption and deformation of the cushioned surface affect the accuracy
of the spring balance’s readings.

The fl at surface allows the spring balance to accurately measure the force of gravity,
while the soft, cushioned surface interferes with the measurement as part of the force is
absorbed by the surface when it deforms. This is why you feel less pain when you fall
on a cushioned surface.

Acti vity 3.3

Aim: To demonstrate how the force of gravity varies with depth underwater.
Materials: Clear container (fi sh tank or large glass or plastic container), water, spring
balance, objects of different weights, string, paper clips (for attaching
objects to the spring balance)

Procedure
1. Fill the clear container with water.
2. Attach various objects of different weights to the spring scale using the string or
paper clips.

64
Student’s Book Form One

Physics Form 1 Final.indd 64 16/10/2024 20:56