Exploring Mass vs. Weight: Shoe Drag Lab for 7th Grade Science

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In summary, the conversation is about a 7th grade Science lesson where the students are conducting a shoe drag lab. They are using a rubber band to measure the stretch of the band when a shoe is dragged across the floor. They then add a rock to the shoe and measure the stretch again. The question is whether adding a rock increases the mass or weight of the shoe. The answer is that by adding the rock, the mass of the shoe is increased, which also increases its weight. This is because weight is directly proportional to mass, as stated in the equation F=ma.
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Mike Powell
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I am teaching 7th grade Science.

We are doing the shoe drag lab. To start we drag a shoe across the floor with a rubber band. Then we add a rock to the shoe and drag it again, measuring the stretch of the rubber band with a ruler.
My question is: by adding a rock to the shoe, are we adding mass or weight?

Mike

P.S. Please help, I have to know the answer before tomorrow morning.
 
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  • #2
You are increasing mass.
 
  • #3
Which increases its weight.

EDIT -- Quiz Question: Why?

(hint: What equation relates mass to the force of weight?)
 

Related to Exploring Mass vs. Weight: Shoe Drag Lab for 7th Grade Science

1. What is a "Shoe Drag lab"?

A Shoe Drag lab is a scientific experiment designed to measure the frictional force between a shoe and a surface when dragged at a constant speed.

2. What materials are needed for a Shoe Drag lab?

The materials needed for a Shoe Drag lab include a flat surface, a shoe, a force meter, a pulley system, and a weight. Optional materials may include a stopwatch and a ruler for more accurate measurements.

3. How is a Shoe Drag lab conducted?

To conduct a Shoe Drag lab, the shoe is attached to the force meter and dragged across the flat surface at a constant speed. The force meter records the amount of force required to drag the shoe, and this data is used to calculate the coefficient of friction between the shoe and the surface.

4. What is the purpose of a Shoe Drag lab?

The purpose of a Shoe Drag lab is to understand the concept of friction and to measure the coefficient of friction between a shoe and a surface. This can also help in understanding the factors that affect the frictional force, such as the texture of the shoe or the type of surface.

5. What are the potential applications of a Shoe Drag lab?

A Shoe Drag lab can be used in various industries, such as shoe manufacturing, sports equipment design, and the development of new materials. It can also be used in research studies to understand how different variables affect friction and to improve product design and performance.

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