CHAPTER 3

38 MAKING THINGS HAPPEN

ACTIVITY 3.3 Experiment: Potential

› Numeracy
›
LLS
SKI

Processing and

and kinetic energy

analysing data and
information

Outline
A projectile launcher was constructed using a ruler, a block, an elastic
band, sticky tape, a cork and string, as shown in the diagram below.
Students were given the task of making a projectile launcher that would
throw the cork the greatest distance. A match was used to burn the string
and set off the cork.

Diagram

Results
Group Distance achieved (m) Average distance (m)

A 3.1, 3.3

B 2.7, 3.0

C 3.4, 3.8

D 2.9, 3.5, 3.9

E 2.7, 2.9, 3.3

OXFORD BIG IDEAS SCIENCE 8 Australian Curriculum Workbook Copyright © Oxford University Press ISBN 9780195573602
 CHAPTER 3
MAKING THINGS HAPPEN 39

1 Use arrows to label the parts used in the diagram.

2 Calculate the average distances in the results table.

3 Write an appropriate aim for this investigation.

     

     

4 Write out an appropriate method in sequence for this investigation.

     

     

     

     

     

     

5 How many trial runs did the different groups carry out?

     

     

6 In which object was the elastic potential energy the greatest? Justify your answer.

     

     

     

7 When was the gravitational potential energy of the cork the greatest? Justify your answer.

     

     

     

Copyright © Oxford University Press ISBN 9780195573602 OXFORD BIG IDEAS SCIENCE 8 Australian Curriculum Workbook
 CHAPTER 3
40 MAKING THINGS HAPPEN
8 When was kinetic energy the greatest? Justify your answer.

     

     

     

9 Which group achieved the greatest average range, and how consistent was their result?

     

     

Extension
10 Critically analyse the saying ‘The bigger they are, the harder they fall’ with reference to potential and
kinetic energy. Is this statement true? Draw a diagram in the space below to explain your answer.

     

     

     

     

     

OXFORD BIG IDEAS SCIENCE 8 Australian Curriculum Workbook Copyright © Oxford University Press ISBN 9780195573602