The banana leaf marble ramp class demonstration noted that the energy imparted to an object falling from a height h is equal to the mass m multiplied the acceleration of gravity g multiplied by the height h (PE = mgh). With the height h kept constant, the potential energy formula argues that the amount of energy a falling object possesses at the bottom of its fall is linearly related to the mass m. If rolling along the ramp causes the marble to lose energy at a constant rate, then the distance d will also vary linearly with the mass m. This practical explores this concept by measuring distance d marbles with mass m will roll.
A marble or other spherical object with mass m is released from the end of the ramp and allowed to roll to a stop on the table. The distance d from the bottom of the ramp to the resting place of the marble is measured. Repeat for as many different spheres as are available in the laboratory.
Design an appropriate table with the mass of the marble m as the independent variable versus the distance d the marble or other spherical object rolled on the table as the dependent variable.
Use the appropriate graph type in order to run an analysis of the mathematical relationship for this system.
Based on the mathematical relationship, report the appropriate values in your analysis.
Wrap up with a discussion appropriate to this laboratory. Discuss whether the system is "predictable," that is, if given a mass m could one make reliable predictions of distance d rolled?