Ballistic Pendulum Lab

Today you completed the Ballistic Pendulum Lab in your lab notebook. You need a procedure, data, and answer (what is the launch velocity of the silver ball). It will be checked during class tomorrow.

Here is a running list of things people discovered about the lab apparatus (I'll update as needed):

• The mass of the pendulum bob is 86.2 g; don't try to measure that yourself
• Pull on the circular knob at the back to cock the launcher, not the stick-like knob near the front
• Flick the stick-like knob near the front of the launcher to launch the ball, not the circular knob at the back
• Don't use the third notch
• Cock the launcher and THEN load the ball
• If your table is uneven the launcher is less likely to work. Use the counters around the outside of the room
• The angle indicator is off on some of the launchers; check yours and compensate as needed