Purpose: To use the projectile motion of a tennis ball to calculate the height of an object that is too tall to be measured with our metersticks.
Theory
Describe the physics principle(s) that make it possible for a tall object's height to be calculated from the motion of a bounced tennis ball. Include, also, a description of how the launch velocity of the projectile can be determined.
Derive an equation that could be used to calculate the launch velocity of the tennis ball with data that can be measured in our laboratory.
Derive an equation that could be used to calculate the maximum height achieved by the tennis ball during its trajectory.
Procedures
Describe the procedures you used in enough detail that another lab team could follow them and achieve the same results. Include any steps necessary to reduce experimental error.
Data
Create a data table where you will record the measurements from your experiment. Include the quantity measured, the symbol you will use to denote the quantity, and the measurement tool used to take the measurement. Include the data from your small scale test.
Calculations
Show the calculations for your small scale test and your full scale test. Calculate the height of the object and the launch velocity (speed and angle) of your projectile.
A student sets up his camera to record the motion of his projectile. He calculates the height of his object to be 2.2m. The actual height of his measured object is 2.8m. Propose a source of error that could have caused his calculated height to be lower than his measured height. Explain why it would work this way.