Re: Chain Problem. Was: correct answer

[Leigh Palmer <palmer@sfu.ca>]

> The "Falling Chain" problem makes for an interesting experiment.  With my
> classes, I use a beaded chain of 1.5 to 2 meters in length, lying in a
> grooved channel on a PASCO aluminum track.  The chain is draped over the
> end of a Smart Pulley and positioned just so it is ready to move.  The
> track can be inclined or placed in a horizontal position.  A limited
> number of data points are collected so as to avoid extraneous data when
> the chain flies free of the pulley.
>
> Then I have the students analyze the acceleration vs. time graph
> generated by this data.  This provides students with an example of
> non-uniform acceleration.  I think an inclined track will best fit
> Donald's solution below but I will need to check it out this year.

What's this about "extraneous data"? Does your chain become unphysical
at some point? I think that the departure from the simple model can be
an opportunity to teach something.

Leigh