Physics 11
Describing Constant Velocity Lab
Purpose:
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Describe constant velocity using a motion diagram, graphical and mathematical analysis.
Develop an operational definition of constant velocity.
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Outcomes Met:
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Identify the frame of reference for a given motion and to distinguish fixed and moving frames.
Identify and investigate questions that arise from practical problems and issues involving motion.
Analyse word problems, solve algebraically for unknowns, and interpret patterns in data.
Procedure:
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Use an air table, spark timer and sheet of paper to generate a motion diagram for a puck moving at constant velocity.
Using a ruler, determine the interval on the motion diagram that displays constant velocity.
Mark the first distinguishable dot in that interval as “0” (or reference point).
Measure the distance from “0” to the next dot.
Measure the distances to each successive dot from the reference point. Be sure to account for the precision of your
ruler by using the appropriate number of significant digits.
6. Create a position-time table of your measurements.
Data Analysis:
1. Create a position-time graph of your data. Be sure to properly scale and label the axes. Entitle your graph.
2. Use a graphing calculator to find the line of best fit equation that appropriately models this data. If you are an
advanced level student, find the line of best fit equation by hand in addition to using the calculator.
3. Graph the equation of the line of best fit on the graph.
Summary Questions:
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What is the constant velocity of the puck? (Be sure to include a direction in your answer)
How do you know that your line of best fit appropriately models the data?
If the puck was allowed to travel for 3.0 seconds, what would be its displacement?
If the puck was allowed to travel for 1.0 meter, how long would it travel?
Write an operational definition of constant velocity using the air table experiment as context.
Lab Report Submission
Students should include the following items in their lab report:
1. Title/Date(s) of lab activity
2. Purpose
3. Theory of the concept of constant velocity. This section would include:
a. Define distance and displacement.
b. Define constant speed and velocity.
c. Explanation of relevant equations and statistics used.
4. Brief overview of procedure (not as outlined verbatim).
5. Data analysis. This section would include:
a. Data table of position and time
b. Graph of position vs. time. Be sure to scale and label axes. Always include origin (0,0) on the graph. Graph should
be include a descriptive title (do not use ‘position vs. time graph’)
c. Graph of the line of best fit and its equation.
6. Answers to the summary questions.
7. Description of sources of error (never use ‘human error’ as an example; be specific)
8. Conclusion (the operational definition of constant velocity and the actual constant velocity of the puck would be included here)
Due Date: ________________________________