Physics 9702/52 — February/March 2022

A trolley with a magnet attached is placed on a thin steel sheet as shown in Fig. 1.1.

The angle between the sheet and the bench is $\theta$. The distance from point X to the trolley is $d$.

The trolley is released from rest and travels down the slope. The velocity $v$ of the trolley at X is determined using a light gate.

It is suggested that $v$ is related to $\theta$ by the relationship

$$mp \sin \theta - qB = \frac{mv^2}{2d}$$

where $m$ is the mass of the trolley and magnet, $B$ is the magnetic flux density between the magnet and the steel sheet, and $p$ and $q$ are constants.

Plan a laboratory experiment to test the relationship between $v$ and $\theta$.

Draw a diagram showing the arrangement of your equipment.

Explain how the results could be used to determine values for $p$ and $q$.

In your plan you should include:

• the procedure to be followed
• the measurements to be taken
• the control of variables
• the analysis of the data
• any safety precautions to be taken.