Ball on "V" Tracks, 1M40.30

Topic and Concept:

• Work and Energy, 1M40. Conservation of Energy

Location:

• Cabinet: Mechanic (ME)

• Bay: (A6)

• Shelf: T

Abstract:

A ball is left to roll on a symmetrical and an unsymmetrical V-shaped track.

Important Setup Notes:

• N/A

Setup and Procedure:

1. Place the desired assortment of V-tracks on the lecture bench so that the long side faces the audience.
2. Place a steel ball at the top of the V on each track and note the motion of each ball.

Cautions, Warnings, or Safety Concerns:

• N/A

Discussion:

When the steel ball is brought to the top part of V, it is given gravitational potential energy. Since it is not yet moving, the total energy of the ball is just the potential energy. Assuming energy losses due to friction and air resistance to be negligible, this energy must be conserved as per the Law of Conservation of Energy. Thus the ball will reach the same height upon its return to the volunteer. Since there is some energy losses, the ball won't be able to reach the same height and so will be a little further down from the top of the V than it had started.

Videos:

• Lecture Demonstration's Youtube Channel

References:

• Conservation of Energy - Wikipedia

Home