Science Methods II- Blog 3

 1. Lab- Big Question: What affects how long it takes a swing to go back and forth?

In lab we discussed the variables that can affect the amount of time it takes a swing to swing back and forth. In my group we looked at weight. To do this, we modeled a swing with string and a stick. To change the amount of weight that was on the swing, we attached different amounts of washers to the string using a paper clip. Originally, my group thought that as more weight was added onto the swing it would take less time to swing back and forth. After doing multiple trials, we found that weight does not matter when it comes to the amount of time it takes for a person to swing back and forth on a swing. 

2. Lecture

In lecture, one thing that we discussed was how the force of gravity pulls on things of different weight. I learned that a more massive object is pulled harder by gravity than an object that is smaller. However, the more massive object is also harder to accelerate, which makes weight irrelevant when swinging on a swing. We also learned about Newtons First Law and how a force is required in order to speed up, slow down, or turn an object. If no force is active, there will be no change in any of those factors of movement.

3. Textbook Reading

What did you learn?

I learned that in a pendulum, the energy is constantly going from potential to kinetic energy. It has potential energy at the top of the swings and kinetic as it is going down.

What was most helpful?

It was really helpful to see some examples of pendulums that we can see in our every day lives. These could be useful when explaining what pendulums are to students and how they work. 

What do you need more information on?

I would like more information on how having different amount of chains affects the pendulum. For example a swing vs. a tire swing. In the reading they discussed how the chains of the swing would need to be the same length, but does it have any other effect? 

What questions/concerns/comments do you have?

Does the length of the string or pendulum have an affect on the amount of energy that a pendulum has? Would a wrecking ball have more power with a shorter chain because it moves to the other side quicker?