Standard Dynamics Systems (Basic Carts)
A collection of mechanics labs for use with the Standard Dynamics Systems that use PAScars and metal carts.
Grade Level: Advanced Placement • College • High School
Subject: Physics
Activities
01) Conservation of Momentum in Explosions
The purpose of this experiment is to demonstrate conservation of momentum with two carts pushing away from each other.
02) Conservation of Momentum in Collisions
The purpose of this experiment is to qualitatively explore conservation of momentum for elastic and inelastic collisions.
03) Launch Speed
In this experiment, you will qualitatively demonstrate how the final speed of the plunger cart depends on its mass and the initial compression of the plunger spring.
05) Acceleration Down an Incline
In this experiment, you will investigate how the acceleration of a cart rolling down an inclined track depends on the angle of incline. From you data, you will calculate the acceleration of an object in free-fall.
06) Simple Harmonic Oscillator
The purpose is to measure the period of oscillation of a spring and mass system and compare it to the theoretical value.
07) Oscillations on an Incline
In this experiment, you will measure the period of oscillation of a spring and mass system on an incline at different angles and compare it to the theoretical value.
08) Springs in Series and Parallel
In this experiment, you will measure and compare the periods of oscillation of a cart attached to various combinations of springs.
