In a demonstration, which change could allow the ball on a straight inclined track to win?

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Enhance your knowledge for the ASU PHY101 Exam. Prepare with multiple choice questions, flashcards, and explanations. Get exam ready with ease!

Increasing the tilt of the yellow track enhances the ball's acceleration due to gravity acting on it. When the incline is steeper, more gravitational force acts in the direction of the track, which increases the component of gravity that propels the ball downward. This means that the ball will roll much faster down a steeper incline compared to a gentler slope.

Additionally, while other options may influence the movement of the ball, they don't directly address the fundamental impact of gravitational force on acceleration. For instance, reducing the weight of the ball might seem like a reasonable choice, but the acceleration of the ball down the incline is independent of its mass — it’s determined by the angle of the incline. Decreasing the length of the track would shorten the distance the ball needs to travel, but it won't necessarily increase its speed. Making the track surface rougher could actually create more friction, which would slow the ball down rather than help it win. Thus, increasing the tilt effectively maximizes the acceleration of the ball due to gravity, making it the most advantageous modification.

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