LEARNING: Ball Bounce
Problem: Investigate bouncing balls using a CBR. (Reference TIPS4RM: Grade 10
Applied Unit 4 page 21)
Context: Various factors affect the way a ball bounces, such as the force of gravity.
The relationship between the height of a bouncing ball and time can be used to describe
the way a particular ball bounce.
Procedure: In this investigation, you will use a ball and a CBR to gather data and
model the relationship between the height of a bouncing ball (represented by the
variable h.and time (represented by the variable t).
Part A: Data Collection
To set up the CBR, press the APPS button on the graphing calculator and select
CBR/CBL. Run the Ranger program. Position the CBR so that it is the same height as
the bottom of the ball. The ball should be 1 m above the floor. Drop the ball and press
the trigger key on the CBR just before the ball strikes the ground. Collect data for at
least three bounces. Repeat the experiment for different types of balls.
Part B: Data Representation
For each ball type, use the TRACE function or the LIST found using the STAT key EDIT
on the graphing calculator to complete the table of values for seven points, starting at
the first bounce and ending at the second. Include the maximum point. Make a graph of
a each ball bounce using Excel.
Ball Type: __________
Time (s)
Height
(cm)
Ball Type: __________
Time (s)
Height
(cm)
Ball Type: __________
Time (s)
Height
(cm)
0
0
0
(max)
(max)
(max)
0
0
0
GAINS Math Camp: Functions-based Curriculum
Part C: Conclusions
1) Based on your observations, numerically and graphically, how do the different
ball types affect the relationship between the height of the ball and time. Explain
your reasoning.
2) For each ball type, write an equation to represent the height of the bouncing ball
as a function of time. What similarities occur among the equations? What
differences occur among the equations?
GAINS Math Camp: Functions-based Curriculum