A physics teacher performed a demonstration for a science class by pulling a crate across the floor and measuring the force with a spring scale. While she pulled, a student measured the acceleration
of the crate with a handheld electronic device. The results of three trials are shown below.
Motion
F-900 N
140 kg
Actual Acceleration
of Crate
Acceleration
Trial
(m/s)
1
0.36
2
0.34
3
0.38
Average 0.36
The teacher asked the class to calculate the acceleration of the crate based on the crate's mass and
the force she applied. What conclusion can be made about the difference between the calculated
acceleration and the actual acceleration that occurred in the trials?
A Another force in the direction of the motion produced a lower acceleration than calculated.
B An opposing force caused by friction produced a lower acceleration than calculated.
C Another force in the direction of the motion produced a higher acceleration than calculated
D An opposing force caused by friction produced a higher acceleration than calculated