Discussion
1. Several assumptions were made while this experiment was carried out:
(i) Friction between the ball bearing and the launching apparatus was neglected.
(ii) Frictional force due to air is neglected.
(iii) The parallax error and inconsistent response when taking reading for the range of the launching ball
(iv) Acceleration of gravity, g is constant.
(v) The ball bearing was assumed as a point mass so no rotational motion
involved.
2. From the data obtained, it can be deduced that the values of initial kinetic energy, KE = 1/2mvo2 are slightly different from the sum of elastic potential energy, 1/2kxo2. This difference in energy was caused by frictional force which exists between the ball bearing and the launcher inner surface which dissipate as heat.
3. In order to get a more accurate results, the surfaces frictional force can be further reduced by applying a layer of oil on the surface of ball bearing and inner surfaces of the launcher.
4. The launcher should hold firm to avoid any movement while launching the ball bearing which will affect the results.
Conclusion
The average value of spring stiffness, K is 1586 Nm-1. The percentage error calculated from the result for displacement is 29.24%. The experimental values are slightly deviated from the theoretical values; the principle conservation of energy is proven.
Done by: Chan Ching Hui & Koay Qing Sheng, Jason Lee, Lee Sin Hao, Yeoh Ceh Hsing
Posted by: Chan Ching Hui & Koay Qing Sheng,Jason Lee, Lee Sin Hao, Yeoh Ceh Hsing
