Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Can someone help me find some background info for my science fair project? I am trying to determine if the placement of weights in a block of wood (front, middle, back)would affect the amount of force needed to pull the block of wood up an inclined plane of various heights and various surface textures.

Hi K-Man!

If I'm reading your plan correctly (I had a little trouble visualizing it), you might be interested in doing research on simple machines, a basic device that applies force and often changes its direction, strength, or distance over which it is applied. You've seen simple machines before, I'm sure: inclined planes, levers, wedges, etc. Obviously, the inclined plane is what you'll be looking at the most in-depth.

As for the "various surface textures," you might be referring to friction. You will need to find some sources on both static and kinetic friction. Static friction is the resisting force you need to overcome in order to begin pulling the block of wood up from its initial position, whereas kinetic friction is the force resisting the actual motion of the block (after you've overcome static friction).

If you do a Google search on the above terms and concepts, I'm sure you'll find plenty of information! Good luck!

Goldenzenith wrote:Hi K-Man!

If I'm reading your plan correctly (I had a little trouble visualizing it), you might be interested in doing research on simple machines, a basic device that applies force and often changes its direction, strength, or distance over which it is applied. You've seen simple machines before, I'm sure: inclined planes, levers, wedges, etc. Obviously, the inclined plane is what you'll be looking at the most in-depth.

As for the "various surface textures," you might be referring to friction. You will need to find some sources on both static and kinetic friction. Static friction is the resisting force you need to overcome in order to begin pulling the block of wood up from its initial position, whereas kinetic friction is the force resisting the actual motion of the block (after you've overcome static friction).

If you do a Google search on the above terms and concepts, I'm sure you'll find plenty of information! Good luck!

Thanks Goldenzenith! I'll let you know how I come out.