PASCO ME-9429B 1.2 m Classic Dynamics System - Manual (Page 23)

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M o d e l N o . M E - 9 4 2 9 A E x p e r i m e n t 6 : L a u n c h S p e e d
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Experiment 6: Launch Speed
Purpose
In this experiment, you will qualitatively demonstrate how the final speed of the
plunger cart depends on its mass and the initial compression of the plunger spring.
Procedure
1. Install the feet on the track and level it.
2. Install and end stop at each end of the track.
3. Push the plunger of the cart into the first, second, or third position. Place the cart
on the track with the plunger against one end stop. Tap the trigger button to
launch the cart.
4. Varying Spring Compression: Repeat step 3 three times. Perform the first trial
with the spring plunger cocked to the first possible position (the least compres-
sion) and then do two more trials increasing the force applied to the cart by
increasing the compression of the spring plunger.
5. Varying Mass: For these trials, always cock the spring plunger to the maximum.
Observe the relative accelerations of the cart alone and with 250 g, 500g, 750 g,
and 1000 g of added mass.
Questions
1. When does the spring apply force to the cart? When is the net force on the cart
(ignoring friction) zero?
2. Does the final speed of the cart increase or decrease with increasing initial spring
compression?
3. Does the final speed of the cart increase or decrease with increasing cart mass?
Required Equipment from Dynamics System
Track with Feet and End Stops
Plunger Cart
Pivot Clamp
Cart Masses