3A20.11 MASS ON SPRING WITH ULTRASONIC RANGER

PURPOSE: To plot graphs of position, velocity and acceleration for a mass oscillating on a spring.

DESCRIPTION: The Pasco Science Workshop ultrasonic range finder is used to plot graphs of position versus time for a mass oscillating
vertically on a spring.  When the mass is doubled, the frequency is proportionally reduced by the square root.  Click on this thumbnail to view the graphs:

 

SUGGESTIONS: Note that the closest distance that can be measured by the ultrasonic ranger is about 50cm. A large-area light-weight aluminum
plate is available to show very strong damping.

REFERENCES: (PIRA unknown)

EQUIPMENT: Plywood mass on spring hanging from stand, light-weight aluminum mass, and computer with Universal Laboratory Interface and
Ultrasonic Range Finder.

SETUP TIME: 5 min.