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Sci-Fry
Nov2-09, 12:21 AM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

My AP physics teacher asked us to do an experiment on anything that involves a paper cone for my physics class, and I'm trying to think of something creative/original to do.

2. Relevant equations

No particular equations. As long as it's AP (12th grade) level physics.

3. The attempt at a solution

The only things I could come up with involved circular motion in a cone or something with sound waves, but those aren't too original. However, it also needs to be something that can be carried out in a school lab. Any interesting ideas?

Andrew Mason
Nov2-09, 01:00 AM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

I need to do an experiment on anything that involves a paper cone for my physics class, and I'm trying to think of something creative/original to do.

2. Relevant equations

No particular equations. As long as it's IB/AP (12th grade) level physics.

3. The attempt at a solution

The only things I could come up with involved circular motion in a cone or something with sound waves, but those aren't too original. However, it also needs to be something that can be carried out in a school lab. Any interesting ideas?
You could put ice cream in one. If you can't figure out what to do with it, at least you could eat it:)

AM

Sci-Fry
Nov2-09, 07:13 AM
Haha whilst I'm sure that would be very nourishing it would get me a zero!

Just to add some extra detail:
Basically the teacher sets a specific parameter (in this case that we need to use a cone) and then we can do whatever we want with it. However, it needs to be a doable experiment - I'll need to eventually conduct the experiment with data, results and evaluative points at the end.

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Andrew Mason
Nov2-09, 05:14 PM
Try inverting the cone, making a small hole in the point and put sand in it. Suspend it from a long string above a clear flat surface and set it in motion. Let it go for several hours. What does the pattern of sand on the surface tell you?

AM