PASCO ME-6962 PAStrack Systems - Manual (Page 13)

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P A S t r a c k S y s t e m s E x p e r i m e n t 3 : S i m p l e H a r m o n i c O s c i l l a t o r
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5. Set the cart on the track and attach a spring to each end. Attach the other ends of
the springs to the end stops (see Figure 3.1).
6. Tie a string to the end of the cart farther from the pulley. Wrap the string under
the cart; then run it under one end stop and over the pulley as shown in Figure
3.1. Attach the mass hanger to the other end of the string. Adjust the pulley so
that the string runs parallel to the track.
7. Let the mass hang freely and wait for the cart to come to rest. Record the mass of
the hanger and the resting equilibrium position of the cart in Table 3.1.
8. Add mass to the hanger. Record the hanging mass and the new equilibrium posi-
tion of the cart in Table 3.1. Repeat this for a total of 5 different masses, being
careful not to over-stretch the springs.
Measuring the Experimental Period
9. Displace the cart from equilibrium and let it go. Time 5 oscillations and record
the time in Table 3.2.
10. Repeat this measurement at 5 times, using the same initial displacement.
11. Add a 500 g mass to the cart and repeat steps 9 and 10.
Calculations
Spring Constant and Theoretical Period
1. Calculate the forces applied by the hanging mass and write them in Table 3.1.
Figure 3.1
Table 3.1: Data and Analysis
Mass of cart = __________
Hanging Mass Position Force