Download Energy Lab Procedure: MASS (kg) Popper PEg (J) Velocity(m/s)

Energy Lab
Name ___________________ Date_________
Purpose : _____________________________________________________________________________
Materials:_____________________________________________________________________________
Procedure:
1. Obtain a “popper” from your physics teacher & record the mass.
MASS (kg)
2. Invert the popper and set it on a flat surface. When the “popper” pops, your lab partner must attempt to
measure the maximum height the “popper” reaches. Repeat this for 10 trials.
Data Table:
3. Using the calculated average height and the formula Eg, determine the Gravitational Potential Energy
for the “popper” at it highest point.
Popper PEg (J)
4. Next, using ONLY this motion formula,
before it hits the ground.
Velocity (m/s)
a
v 2f  vi2
2 d , calculate the velocity (m/s) of the popper just
5. Your task now is to determine the amount of elastic potential energy stored in a toy “popper” using
the law of conservation of energy. Since we do not have an equation for elastic potential energy in a
popper, we must find another method. First, fill in the energy flow diagrams below. Each scenario shows a
different location in the popper’s movement. Neglect air friction.
Draw the Pie charts
fully compressed
on its way to max height
at max height
about to hit the ground
Draw the bar graphs for all the four positions of the toy
6. Utilizing the results from our lab and the law of conservation of energy, in the space below write a
method for determining elastic potential energy. This write-up should include:
a. Connections between the lab, energy diagrams, and law of conservation of energy
b. Equations that support your explanation
c. A calculated elastic potential energy
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