Practical Investigation into the Horizontal motion of a Projectile

The aim of this investigation is to determine the horizontal motion of a uniform particle when released down a ramp at varying speeds. The manipulation of speed will be achieved by positioning the projectile at different heights above a table, on a ramp. I believe that the horizontal component of the particle's travel will be proportional to its starting height, thus, if one is doubled so is the other.

Equipment

This experiment will require:

• Ball Bearing - projectile
• Ramp - Inclined to 50cm in height
• Table - 80cm in height
• Strip of white paper
• Meter Ruler
• Clamp Stand
• Carbon Paper

Method

During this experiment I will be using the "Start Height" of the ball bearing as the input variable, and "Horizontal Distance" as the outcome variable.

I will conduct the experiment three times for each height. The data from these trials will be averaged to give a much more reliable figure. These averages will be plotted on a graph to find any relationships and test proportionality.

Get quality help now

writer-Charlotte

Verified writer

Proficient in: Motion

4.7 (348)

“ Amazing as always, gave her a week to finish a big assignment and came through way ahead of time. ”

+84 relevant experts are online

Hire writer

Equipment Diagram:

As shown above, the ramp will be positioned on the table using clamp stands and G-clamps. The ramp will be approximately two centimeters away from the edge of the table to allow the ball bearing to begin it's measured motion from a horizontal plane. This is imperative to ensure that the vertical speed of the particle remains the same for every attempt. The height of the table (H), and angle of the ramp will remain constant throughout the experiment. The strip of paper will be running along the floor, in the path of the projectile.

Before initiating the main experiment, I conducted Preliminary experiments, releasing the projectile from various heights to find roughly where to position the carbon paper. When released, the projectile should land on the carbon paper and leave a mark on the exact spot that it landed. I considered this the most accurate method of measurement. The distance traveled can then be measured from the carbon mark to the edge of the table.

Safety

With an experiment of this nature there are not many safety factors to consider. However, I ensured that I conducted the experiment where nobody could slip on the paper