1M40.40 Ballistic Pendulum

PURPOSE: To demonstrate the conservation of energy

DESCRIPTION: This dedicated apparatus allows a ball to be shot from a spring-loaded "gun" into a holder. The holder is then free to swing up, but is caught at its highest point. The apparatus itself fits easily on a tabletop and may be hard for students in the back of the lecture hall to see clearly.

SETUP TIME: Ready to go

COMPONENT LIST:

    


  1.  Ballistic Pendulum Apparaus		CM Shelves, halfway back

SUGGESTIONS: This demonstration allows quantitative analysis. (The mass of the holder and ball are taped on the apparatus.)

REFERENCES: PIRA 1M40.40

OTHER NOTES: It takes a lot of force to cock the spring-loaded gun. It is not broken. The effort required gives you (and students) a good idea of how much energy it takes to shoot the ball that high.