Experiment with rolling balls-Why were results different at different heights?

In summary, the conversation revolved around an experiment with rolling balls and the results being different at different heights. The participants discussed the inconsistent data and possible reasons for this, including moment of inertia, critical angle, and friction. They also mentioned researching and trying to explain the findings. One of the participants mentioned not being able to work with equations at their level.
  • #1
Blou
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Experiment with rolling balls--Why were results different at different heights?

1. My son's science fair data is hard to understand. In a speed test rolling four balls down a ramp at 10" and 21" height the results were not consistent between the two heights. At the 10" height the balls with the most density had faster times down the ten foot ramp. (pool ball, gulf ball, basketball, foam ball) At the 21" height the balls won according to their mass. (basketball, pool ball, gulf ball, foam ball) We figured that the 10" data was due to the moment of inertia but we are not able to figure out the reason it switched at the 21" height.

2. We are not able to work with many equations at his level.


3.We are researching and wondering if the height change made such a difference because of the critical angle or because of the change in slipping or rolling? We are over our heads but it would be great to explain his findings in some way.
 
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  • #2


Is this a question for a book or are we talking about an irl son here?

I'm going to go out on a limb here and say friction of some kind is behind your problems..
If there's a problem it's almost always friction
 

FAQ: Experiment with rolling balls-Why were results different at different heights?

1. Why did the height of the ball affect the results of the experiment?

The height of the ball affected the results of the experiment because it determines the amount of potential energy the ball has before it is released. The higher the ball is released from, the more potential energy it has, which translates into greater kinetic energy and a higher velocity when it reaches the bottom of the ramp.

2. How does the angle of the ramp affect the results of the experiment?

The angle of the ramp also affects the results of the experiment because it determines the acceleration of the ball. A steeper ramp will result in a greater acceleration and a faster velocity, while a shallower ramp will result in a slower velocity.

3. Why were the results different when the ball was released from the same height on different surfaces?

The surface on which the ball is rolling can affect the amount of friction and resistance that the ball experiences. This can impact the speed and distance traveled by the ball, resulting in different results even when released from the same height.

4. How does the weight of the ball impact the results of the experiment?

The weight of the ball also plays a role in the results of the experiment. A heavier ball will have more inertia and will require more force to accelerate, resulting in a slower velocity compared to a lighter ball. This can also impact the distance traveled by the ball.

5. Why is it important to conduct multiple trials of the experiment?

Conducting multiple trials of the experiment helps to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the results. It allows for any errors or inconsistencies to be identified and accounted for, resulting in more precise and conclusive data. Additionally, it helps to account for any external factors that may have influenced the results of a single trial.

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