Physics HW 1

PS115

1st lab questions

1. If we assume that the ball is launched with the same velocity every time from the spring, what can cause the maximum height to be slightly different for each trial?

2. The pendulum experienced slightly different maximum heights for each trial. In the experiment we took an average of theses heights to get one initial velocity for the ball. Would calculating a different initial velocity for each of these heights and then taking an average of these velocities make more physical sense then taking the average height?

3. If we were to change the spring constant (k) by increasing or decreasing its value, what would the effect be on the initial velocity of the projectile?

4.  In what way if any would changing the angle of the gun affect the projectiles expected flight distance and initial velocity?

Challenge Calculation (you need to answer this question for credit)

Assume that the pendulum was allowed to break off from its lever arm when the ball hits it. Using the same masses, initial velocity for the ball and initial height, how far would the ball plus the pendulum travel if they hit at the edge of the table?