Mechanics
> Work and Energy > Conservation of Energy
DCS#
1M40.65
PROJECTILE LAUNCHER
APPARATUS
projectile
launcher with photogates mounted, ball, rod
107-02-A2
two-meter
stick
113
photogate
timer
202-14-C2
C-clamp
202-01-E6
DESCRIPTION
Aim launcher vertically and load
ball. Launch the ball by pulling the string on the trigger.
Use the photogate to determine the initial velocity of the ball.
Use the meter stick to measure the peak height. Air resistance is
not negligible, so the gravitational potential energy at the peak is
~10% less than the initial kinetic energy.
NOTES
If using the medium range, the
muzzle
velocity is ~8 m/s and ball will hit the ceiling if launched from
table height, so the launcher should be placed on the floor.
