Ballistic Pendulum, 1M40.40

Topic and Concept:

• Work and Energy, [:WorkEnergy#ConservationOfEnergy: 1M40. Conservation of Energy]

Location:

• Cabinet: [:MechanicsCabinet:Mechanic (ME)]

• Bay: [:MechanicsCabinetBayB10:(B10)]

• Shelf: #1 attachment: mainPhoto

Abstract:

A safer variation on the standard ballistic pendulum consists of a ball baring launched from a spring-loaded launcher into a bifilar-suspended catcher showing the conservation of energy.

Important Setup Notes:

• N/A

Setup and Procedure:

1. After placing the apparatus on the bench top, use the three set screws and mass suspended over the protractor (see photos) to level it.
2. There is hole in the ball baring. Place the baring on the launcher by putting the launching rod through this hole.
3. Cock the firing mechanism by pushing on the baring horizontally, opposite to the catcher.
4. There is a release lever situated on the top of the housing of the launcher. When ready to launch the baring, push downward on this lever.
5. Using the part specifications below, and a careful measurement of the angular displacement, one can calculate the energy dissipated into the catcher. (Verification of the conservation of energy to come - measurement of the spring constant needed!)

Cautions, Warnings, or Safety Concerns:

• N/A

Discussion: The catcher and the ball baring have a mass of 314.8 g and 57.3 g respectively. On average, an angular displacement of about 21° is observed. An estimate of the initial kinetic (total) energy of the ball baring can be obtained if the initial velocity is known (soon to come - analyzing slow motion footage).

Videos:

• [https://www.youtube.com/user/LectureDemostrations/videos?view=1 Lecture Demonstration's Youtube Channel]

References:

• [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conservation_of_energy Conservation of Energy - Wikipedia]

• [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ballistic_pendulum Classic Ballistic Pendulum - Wikipedia]

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