Thursday, February 4, 2010

Sliding friction

The three investigations done in class this week has led us to discover that:
  • The force of sliding friction depends on the type surface it is moving across.
  • The force of sliding friction increases as the weight increases.
  • The force of sliding friction does not depend on the surface area of the block in contact with the surface.
You used a spring scale to measure the force that counterbalanced the frictional force. This was evident when you pulled on the scale at a steady rate. Your effort force is equal to and opposite the frictional force. (Newton's Third Law!)

We also discussed another type of friction- air resistance. Keep in mind the variables you tested in class would affect objects differently in the air. (Surface area matters when you are flying through the air!)

Reminder: HW list and lab reports are due tomorrow!

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Collecting Data on Friction

We used the class period today to collect data on the assigned variable and friction. You now have all the info needed to complete your lab report. All lab reports are due by Friday. Any lab report received next week will lose points each day.

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Need something to do this Friday?

Then come check out the district staff talent show at the PAC at 7pm! Last year's talent show was a hit and this year should be also! Performing again on stage will be HOLD FOR DISMISSAL. The staff cover band is back with 3 new songs. Tickets are $4 for students and $5 for adults. Money collected will benefit Project Graduation.

Investigating friction

Our investigation on forces led us today to think about how the effort force will change due to surface type, weight of the load, and surface area. Groups were assigned one set of variables to test. In class you began writing your lab report for this lesson. Tomorrow, you will conduct the lab and finish the lab report.

All lab reports will be given a test grade and are due no later than FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5!

Also due Friday ~ HW list for this week.

Monday, February 1, 2010

Net force

Concepts covered today:
  • Reviewed properties of gravity
  • Calculated net force on an object
HW lists have been given out for the week. Reminder that all 4 assignments are due by Friday, February 5.
Lost your homework list? Check out the link in the upper right hand corner!