Motion Experiment Ideas for EPI Prac

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on selecting a suitable experiment for an Extended Practical Investigation (EPI) in the topic of Motion. The user initially considered measuring the Drag Coefficient of a balloon but found it impractical due to challenges in determining the terminal velocity. They propose an alternative experiment involving the calculation of the spring constant (K) using identical springs in both parallel and series configurations. Additionally, the user expresses interest in exploring the simple harmonic oscillator and the similarities between the equations of motion for a mass-spring system and a pendulum.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the spring constant (K) and its calculation.
  • Familiarity with concepts of terminal velocity and drag coefficient.
  • Knowledge of simple harmonic motion and oscillators.
  • Basic experimental design and data analysis skills.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for measuring terminal velocity in various objects.
  • Explore the principles of drag coefficient and its calculation techniques.
  • Investigate the mathematical relationships in simple harmonic motion.
  • Learn about experimental setups for testing spring constants in different configurations.
USEFUL FOR

Students conducting physics experiments, educators seeking practical investigation ideas, and anyone interested in the principles of motion and oscillatory systems.

krzysiek
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Homework Statement



Hey,

Basically my EPI (Extended Practical Investigation) is coming up and I need to conduct an experiment in class and research at home. The topic is Motion, and I can pretty much do anything I want - as long as i can work something out, or prove a formula. I was initially thinking of doing proving the Drag Coefficient of a balloon, but to do that, I would essentially need the terminal velocity of the balloon to work out the Drag Coefficient - which I can't do effectively.

What i mean, for example, is ie - Taking 5 springs that are identical. Use one spring to calculate the K constant for those springs. Then, join the springs in parallel AND in series to work out if the K constant changes when they work together, and try and establish a relationship. That's just an example for you guys to see what I'm trying to say, basically just wondering if anyone here has any ideas on what type of topic to do for the Prac / Experiment.

I will be extremely greatful for any help or ideas in regards to what to test or experiment on!
 
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I think a topic involving the simple harmonic oscillator would be good. For example, you could show how the equations of motion for a mass connected to a spring and for a pendulum are similar.
 

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