Marbles and Momentum

I chose to investigate how different surfaces affect a marbles momentum. I chose five different surface, two smoother-granite and glass, two rough-burlap and concrete, and one that had properties of both-wood. I realized that I had to apply the same force to create the same momentum in my experiment. So I build a launching pad, a plastic tubing at 105 degrees. I decided to use distance to measure my results.

Before beginning the trails on each surface, I made sure that I had enough space to allow each marble to travel the maximuim distance. I then made sure my launching pad was straight so that the marble would travel straight. As I launched the marble on each surface, I completed three trails per surface and averaged my data to get a medium result. During the experiment the smoother surfaces allowed the marble the travel greater distances than the rougher surfaces. I was able to see that friction is caused with surfaces that is not smooth. My results were what I had predicted, the smoother the surface the farther the marble will travel.

During the experiment the launching of the marble was not a problem because I had forseen this and built a launching pad so that the marble would basically get the same force for each trail. What did not work well was the distance that was traveled on the smoother surfaces. The distance was great and measuring it could become troublesome for my students. I would consider using time with them to ensure more accurate results.

I would make this experiment more fun for my students by having them design their own experiments, they would not have to use marbles or the same launching pad, I would allow them to explore how surfaces affect momentum in anyway they choose. The only requirement is that they learn the relationship between momentum and how friction affects the distance traveled.

I do feel that this experience is related to their lives because they encounter this relationship if they walk and especially if they play sports.