Playground Physics

In playground design (swings), what would be the perfect

swing height for an optimum swing time?

The Experiment DesignWriting the Design Plan

Your task:

To investigate the swing of a pendulum as a model for the project. Decide on your variables in this lab and what factors will change the swing rate.

Write a report and present your research and findings explaining the steps you took, the findings and your final recommendations.

Bob/ weight

Length of String

angle

Time period

period is the time for the bob to return to the point of release

2.8 s

PLANNING AND DESIGN

Fun in the

Creativity, Teamwork, Collaboration

Fun in the Fun in the

Creativity, Teamwork, Collaboration

Client Specifications: 1. Recommendation requires thorough study of all 3

variables to determine ultimate swing height for a prefect swing time.

2. For each variable (mass, angle, length), 5 variations are needed. e.g. 5 masses, 5 lengths, 5 angles.

3. A minimum of 3 trials is set for each variable. Each trial reflects the average time period for 10 full swings (T/10).

Schedule and Tasks:

1. First half:

[ ] Complete hypothesis for

the 3 variables

[ ] Write outline of procedure

[ ] Draw blank data tables for

recording results

2. Second half

[ ] Set-up pendulum

[ ] Finalize procedure; includes

diagram of apparatus

Task: Investigate the effect of mass, angle, length

on the time period of a pendulum.

Writing the Aim:

Change into a question:

How does (independent variable/s)__________________

affect the (dependent variable) __________________ ?

Writing the HypothesesWhich variable has an effect on the rate of

swing? Which does not? Why?

Changing and Controlling Variables:

Changing Variables:

Rate of swing: 10 swings

2. For each variable (mass, angle, length), 5 variations are needed. e.g. 5 masses, 5 lengths, 5 angles.

3. A minimum of 3 trials is set for each variable. Each trial reflects the average time period for 10 full swings (T/10).

Organizing DataCreating the Data Table

Table showing effect of Distance on Force

Distance D/m

Force of Car F/NWork

W= F x DTrial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average

0.5 (A)

0.6      

0.7      

0.8      

0.9

1.0 (B)      

Appropriate title: includes I and D variables

Independent variable with

correct symbol and

units

Dependent variable with

correct symbol and

units

Reflect 3 trials and average

This section introduces the topic of the project, notes any information already available, explains why you are interested in the project, and states the purpose of the project.

Background

•Why was this study performed?

•What knowledge already exists about this subject?

•What is the specific purpose of the study?