3/27 Physics update and homework due 4/3

Hi folks,

Today we took the opportunity to explore potential and kinetic energy.  We used a toy car that is powered by rubber bands to measure the effect of adding potential energy has on the resulting kinetic energy.  

For homework this week would like you to read the Potential Energy and Kinetic Energy chapter in the book.

I would also like you to analyze your data by creating a graph. Make one graph with "number of twists" on the horizontal (bottom) axis and "speed" on the vertical (side) axis.  

I've included a picture of the data below.

Then, on that graph plot the data from the table below for the "one elastic band"  Draw a line through those data points.

Then, the same graph, use a different color to plot the data for "two elastic bands"  Draw a line through those data points.

Last but not least, do the same thing for "three elastic bands".

So in other words, you should have one graph but on that graph there should be 3 lines each in a different color.

Use the graph to answer the following questions.

1.  How did the number of twists relate to the potential energy of the car?

2.  How did the number of rubber bands relate to the potential energy of the car?

3.  How does potential energy relate to kinetic energy?

4.  Use the slope of the graph to predict what velocity you would find if you did 10 twists with one band.  Two band?  How about three bands?