Determine what the theoretical slope of the graph is (for example the slope of a distance vs. time graph is velocity); be sure to show all work.
So, I had to make a weight vs. mass graph which i did, and i also found its numeric value for the slope. I don't know what theoretical slope means, can anyone explain that to me? Please!
Thank you!
weight= mass*g is the theortical line, the slope is g.
Do i need to find the g from my data for that? or do i just write that formula?
your experimental g will be from your graph. The theortical slope is the generally accepted value of g, 9.81m/s^2
oh i get it now, thank you :)
Of course! Theoretical slope refers to the expected or predicted slope of a graph based on a known relationship or equation. In the example you mentioned, the slope of a distance vs. time graph represents velocity. This relationship is based on the equation:
velocity = distance / time
However, in the case of a weight vs. mass graph, the theoretical slope is not as straightforward as in the distance vs. time example. We need to first consider the equation that relates weight and mass.
The weight of an object is determined by the force of gravity acting on it, and this force can be calculated using the equation:
weight = mass * acceleration due to gravity
So, to find the theoretical slope of a weight vs. mass graph, we need to rewrite this equation in slope-intercept form:
weight = (slope) * mass + (y-intercept)
The slope in this case represents the acceleration due to gravity, which is a constant value near the Earth's surface. So, the theoretical slope of the weight vs. mass graph would be the acceleration due to gravity.
To find the numeric value for the slope, you can use the data points from your weight vs. mass graph. Choose two points on the graph and calculate the change in weight divided by the change in mass. This will give you the slope (as weight and mass have a linear relationship).