PASCO
 
MAIN PROCEDURE
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PASPORT: (Zip file or Stuffit file)
ScienceWorkshop: (Zip file or Stuffit file)
In this experiment, students will make observations of a coupled oscillator.
    1. Find an efficient way to make both magnets motionless.

    2. Pull one magnet several centimeters downward so that it oscillates freely up and down near the top of the coil.

    3. Press the Start Button .

    4. Collect approximately 5 seconds of data.

    5. Press the Stop Button .

    6. Write down observations of your data.

    7. Using the "Experiment" menu, select "Delete All Data Runs."

    8. Switch the poles of one of the magnets. Repeat steps 1-7.

    9. Switch the plugs to one of the coils. Repeat steps 1-7.

    10. Turn one of the coils upside down. Repeat steps 1-7.

    11. Hold one of the masses motionless. Repeat steps 2-7.

    12. Repeat steps 1-7. However, collect approximately 30 seconds of data.
    1. Explain the results from your initial observations. In other words, explain the behavior of the coupled oscillator?

    2. Explain your results from your observations of ...
      1. switching the poles of one of the magnets.
      2. switching the plugs to one of the coils.
      3. turning one of the coils upside down.
      4. holding one of the masses motionless.
      5. watching the system over 30 seconds.

    3. What would happen if ... (include references to the forces, periods, and current)
      1. The coils contain more turns? The coils contain fewer turns?
      2. The magnets are more massive? Less massive?
      3. The magnets are stronger? Weaker?
      4. The spring constant is greater? The spring constant is lower?