Potential Energy in to Kinetic Experiment

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on designing an experiment to convert stored potential energy into kinetic energy using a car that must travel exactly 2 meters without external forces. Participants suggest various mechanisms, including using a balloon for propulsion, a mousetrap to spin the wheels, and a spring mechanism that unwinds to propel the car forward. The goal is to brainstorm effective methods and procedures to achieve the specified distance accurately.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of potential and kinetic energy principles
  • Basic knowledge of mechanical systems and propulsion methods
  • Familiarity with spring mechanics and energy storage
  • Experience in experimental design and measurement techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Research balloon propulsion mechanisms for small vehicles
  • Explore the mechanics of mousetrap-powered vehicles
  • Study spring mechanics and how to calculate potential energy
  • Learn about precision measurement techniques for distance in experiments
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students, educators, and hobbyists interested in physics experiments, particularly those focusing on energy conversion and mechanical design.

Larrytsai
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Hi, I just need a little help brainstorming some ideas for my upcoming experiment on stored potential energy converted to kinetic energy.

Basically, you build a car and some way it has to move to a certain distance.

The rule is, the car has to move exactly 2m to a dot and we're not allowed to have an external force on the car.

My ideas so far: balloon on the back of my car, or a mousetrap and some how spin the wheel


Any help here will be welcome and also if you guys could... please add some procedure of a way to accurately find out how to get to 2m thnx a bunch
 
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A spring. When you roll the car backwards, the spring winds up. When you let go of it, it unwinds and propels the car forward.
 

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