Advice in Choosing a Project

dx

We have been studying Classical Mechanics this term (11th grade) and I will have to do some project in it when I go back to school for the second term (perform an experiment, construct an instrument etc.). I would like to do something which is instructive and insightful. If you can suggest something, I would be grateful.

ZapperZ

http://www4.umdnj.edu/camlbweb/scifair.html

Zz.

dx

Thanks for the link ZapperZ. I've looked through the site, but I need to pay for most of what they offer. The type of thing I need to do is to experimentally verify some principle or calculate some constant (like g) or build some machine which clearly demonstrates something (like atwoods machine or an air trough). I would appreciate it if some one could give me particular examples of possible projects. I dont want things that are just cool to look at.

ZapperZ

What about getting a helium filled balloon, tie a string to it, get onto a train, and while holding on the other end of the string, watch it as the train starts to move (accelerate) forward. You'll see something puzzling that you can write about and explain.

Zz.

dx

Hm.. I really cant get onto a train right now. And im not sure where I can buy a helium filled baloon. Mybe ill try it standing on a car if I find a baloon. But just for now, to think about it, can you tell me what ill see?

ZapperZ

Nope. You just have to do it yourself.

Zz.

dx

Would it be ok if I held the baloon and started running? or does it have to be a gradual acceleration to percieve the effect?

ZapperZ

No, this will not work.

Zz.

z-component

This experiment would be even better by first using a balloon filled with regular air for comparrison. Nice idea, Zz.

ZapperZ

Or go all the way and fill it with water!

:)

Zz.

dx

Please tell me what ill see, its not easy to get helium baloons where I live. Im guessing that the rope will deviate from the vertical and the baloon will oscillate. is that right?