Pasco Dynamics Cart and Track

 

Code Number: 1M40.63

Demo Title: Spring = X-Squared Energy Dependence

Condition: Fair

Principle: Spring: Compressed Length vs. Energy

Area of Study: Mechanics

Equipment: 

Pasco Dynamics Cart and Track, 1500 gram mass, Pasco ME-9488 Cart Launcher.

Procedure:

Data Points for the spring launcher are 0.2 and 1.2 as marked on the launcher itself. Make sure  that the cart is up against the plunger and trigger from the 0.2 mark, then measure the distance the cart travels. Reset the launcher to the 1.2 mark and repeat the experiment. The ratios of the distances traveled should be about 1:4.

References:

  • Figuring Physics, TPT, Vol. 51, # 7, Oct. 2013, p. 392.
  • T. A. McMath, "A Dynamics Cart Demonstration: Momentum, Kinetic Energy, and More", TPT, Vol. 24, # 5, May 1986, p. 282.
  • Julius Sumner Miller, Q208 & A208, Millergrams II – Some More Enchanting Questions for Enquiring Minds, p. 62 & 111.