Vertically Oscillating Mass on Spring (Stephen)

Research Question and Hypothesis

How does the position of a mass hanging on a spring vary with time?

Standards

HS-PS2-1.

Analyze data to support the claim that Newton’s second law of motion describes the mathematical relationship among the net force on a macroscopic object, its mass, and its acceleration.

Experimental Design

Use video analysis to measure the position of the mass in each video frame.

Independent variable

Time will be measured using the video time code.

Dependent variables

Position will be measured by setting a scale and coordinate system within the Tracker video analysis software.

Series

Not applicable

Constants and Controls

The spring constant will be kept constant. No control is needed.

Materials

• spring

• mass

• camera

• ring stand

Procedures

• hang spring from ring stand

• drop mass

• record video

• use tracker analyze the video and determine the position of the object in each frame.

Sample data and graphs

See the movies shown below.

Analysis & Conclusions

A sine function can be used to describe and predict the position of a mass oscillating vertically on a spring. The period of oscillation remains constant, despite the reduction in amplitude over time.

Photos & Movies

References

Simple Harmonic Motion - HyperPhysics

Bonus Longitudinal Study: Water Evaporation over 4 days

Research Question and Hypothesis

How does the volume of water change over four days in an uncovered graduated cylinder in a garage?

Constants and Controls

Temperature and humanity changed throughout the experiment.