PASCO ME-6962 PAStrack Systems - Manual (Page 19)

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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 5 : S p r i n g s i n S e r i e s a n d P a r a l l e l
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4.Incline the track by raising the end where the
spring is attached. As the end of the track is
raised the spring will stretch. Incline the track
by raising the end of the track where the spring
attached. As the end of the track is raised the
spring will stretch. Keep the angle of inclina-
tion of the track small enough so the spring is
not stretched more than about 50 cm. Use the
pivot clamp and support stand to hold the track
at this angle.
5.Displace the cart from equilibrium and let it
go. Time 2 oscillations and record the time in
Table 5.1. Repeat this measurement at least 5
times, using the same initial displacement.
Measuring the Effective Spring Con-
stant of Spring Combinations
6.Add a second spring in series as shown in
Figure 5.2 and repeat step 5.
7.Put the two springs in parallel as shown in
Figure 5.3 and repeat step 5.
8.Arrange the springs as shown in Figure 5.4
and repeat step 5.
Calculations
1.Using the data in Table 5.1, calculate the
average time for 2 oscillations.
2.Calculate the period by dividing these times
by 2 and record the periods in Table 5.1.
3. Using the periods and the mass of the cart, calculate the effective spring constants.
Questions
1. For which type of combination (series of parallel) is the effective spring constant equal to 2k?
2. For which type of combination (series of parallel) is the effective spring constant equal to k/2?
3. Is the arrangement with springs at opposite ends a series or parallel combination?
Table 5.1: Experimental Period
Springs
Time for 2 Oscillations
Average Period Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Trial 4 Trial 5
Single
Series
Parallel
Opposite ends
Figure 5.1: Single spring
Figure 5.2: Springs in series
Figure 5.3: Springs in parallel
Figure 5.4: Springs on opposite ends