Projectile Motion Essay

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Projectile Motion Vishnu Pill The purpose of this experiment is to investigate the nature of two-dimensional, uniformly accelerated motion, and to test the formula for the range of a projectile. Background: In this lab we will shoot a projectile at initial angle θ of zero degrees, then 45 degrees, and then at a variety of angles, velocities, and heights. We will measure the height y0, determine the initial velocity v0, and see whether the measured range R is in accordance with the theoretical equations. Procedure: 1. Verify contents of launcher set (printed on both sides of lid). 2. Clamp the stand to the counter 3. Attach the bracket to the launcher and two photogates to the bracket. See the figure below. Make sure everything is aligned so that the ball will break both beams. 4. Connect the photogate head closer to the launcher to channel 1 on the SmartTimer. Connect the other photogate head to channel 2. 5. Plug in and turn on the Smart Timer. 6. On the face of the Smart Timer, press the red Select Measurement key until the display reads Time. Press the blue Select Mode key until the display reads Two Gates. In this mode, the timer will display the time that elapses between the time the first photogate beam is blocked and the time the second beam is blocked. 7. Fix the launcher so its angle of launch θ is zero degrees. Use your level or your angle inclinometer to make sure the angle is correct. 8. Suspend a plumb bob so that it just touches the floor directly below the point where the ball leaves the launcher (which is marked on the launcher). Mark this spot on the floor with tape. 9. Make sure the area in front of the launcher is clear for a shot and that everyone is wearing safety goggles. Discussion Questions: 1. Why is the height y0 determined from the floor to the bottom of the ball,

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