3/14/11

Post date: Mar 14, 2011 2:12:32 PM

BR: What launch angle do you think will give a projectile its greatest range? Why?

    • Return and discuss final exam

  • Projectile lab

      • Collect data and begin analysis today

      • Work time in computer lab Monday, 10/11

      • Full lab write-up due Monday, 10/18

      • Get into groups of 4-6 people. Students may choose their own groups. For lab write-ups (after data collection), students may work as one large group, smaller groups within the data group, or individually.

      • Gather your materials. Each group needs the following:

        • 1 ping pong ball

        • 1 ping pong ball launcher (you may use either the PVC launchers or the wooden ones. For the wooden launchers, keep in mind that overstretched rubber bands break ... this would throw off your data)

        • 1 stopwatch

        • 2-3 meter sticks

        • 1 protractor

      • Somewhere on your lab, write down the number of your launcher (marked on each one)

      • Before you begin your experiment, write down your hypothesis about the relationship between range and angle, and about what angle will produce the largest range.

      • Begin by shooting (from the floor) at 90 degrees (straight up). Try out pulling the elastic different amounts until you find one that won't cause the ball to hit the ceiling, but you still get some good distance out of. Mark down how far you are pulling, and pull this same distance for every shot.

      • Begin collecting data. The data table in your lab manuals is a good format, but likely won't be big enough for all of your data. Also, your class DOES NOT need to measure hang time for the calculations you'll do. Do each angle multiple times for greater accuracy.

      • If you finish collecting data before the end of the period, begin working on analysis questions 1, 2, 4, and 6