Complete the following table and answer the questions:

Table 1: Popper physics data

Trial Number	Maximum Height (m)
1
2
3
Average:
Trial Number	Time in Air (s)
1
2
3
4
Average:

Questions:

What is the gravitational potential energy your popper has at its maximum height you measured? Use g = 9.8 m/s2, and a mass of 0.01 kg.

Note: For question 1, use the equation for Potential Energy listed below; your potential energy is equal to 0.01 kg times 9.8 m/sec squared times the average height (in meters) The answer is in the units of joules.

PE = mgh =

Use the following kinematics equation to calculate the initial velocity of the popper based on how long it is in the air:

H = h ₀ + v ₀ t – ½ gt

where the final height h = 0 and initial height ho = 0 after the popper travels the total time up and down over your measured time t.

Note: For question 2, use the equation initial velocity = ½ gt - this is how the equation rearranges when the two heights = zero. So, multiple ½ times 9.8 (the value for g) times your average time is seconds from Table 1. Your answer will be in m/sec

Use this value for the initial velocity to find the kinetic energy of the popper right as it “pops” up.

Note: For question 3, you need to use the calculated velocity in question 2 to solve for the kinetic energy of the popper. Locate the equation for the kinetic energy in your textbook to do so.

Compare your answers for potential energy and kinetic energy? Are they the same, or close to the same?

Note: the answers for potential and kinetic energy should be very close. If they are not, check to make sure you measured height in meters and time in seconds.

Is the energy stored in the popper rubber before it “pops” more or less than the energy the popper has at its total height? Why?

Answer rating: 100% (QA)

WriteUp for Lab 112 Popper Physics Table 1 Popper physics data Trial Number Maximum Height m 1 1247 2 1459 3 1225 Average 131 Trial Number Time in Air ... View the full answer