Question

Based on your results. did all of the initial gravitational potential energy convert into kinetic energy? If there is a difference between the gravitational potential energy and the kinetic energy, what do you think caused the difference? Did the angle of the track or the mass of the cart have any effect on the data? Explain What were the sources of error m this experiment? How did your hypothesis compare to your conclusion? Hypothesis in winter ski jumping, how would the skier know the final velocity at the top of the ramp if they are given the height of the ramp?

Answer 1

If the total gravitational potential energy causes the kinetic energy then,

$mgh = \frac{1}{2}m v^{2}$

$v = {\sqrt{2gh}}$

Now looking at the data, it can be said that all the potential energy has not been converted in kinetic energy.

When the kinetic energy is lesser, it might be due to workdone against some additional resisting force such as air or frictional force. Or the energy might be converted to heat during the motion. But when the kinetic energy is greater than theoretical value, it means some additinal amount of energy has been added to the system from outside, this might also be wind or some pushing force like that.