Materials Required:
Hot Wheels car
Hot Wheels track
Blocks to prop up the track (to create a ramp)
Quarters (for adding weight)
Tape
Measuring tape or ruler
Steps Involved:
Set Up the Ramp:
Use the Hot Wheels track and blocks to create a ramp. Ensure it is stable and has a consistent incline.
Conduct the First Trial:
Release the plain Hot Wheels car from the top of the ramp. Measure how far the car travels past the end of the ramp.
Record the distance. Repeat this process two more times for accuracy.
Add Weight to the Car:
Tape three quarters to the Hot Wheels car to add mass.
Conduct the Second Trial:
Release the weighted car from the top of the ramp. Measure how far it travels past the end of the ramp.
Record the distance. Repeat this process two more times for consistency.
Compare Results:
Analyze the distances traveled by the plain car and the weighted car. Discuss how the added mass affects the car’s momentum and distance traveled.
Discuss the Science Behind It:
Explain that while a lighter object requires less force to start moving due to less inertia, a heavier object gains more momentum. Momentum is determined by both the mass and speed of the object, making the heavier car harder to stop and thus allowing it to travel farther due to its greater momentum.
Ensure Accuracy:
Emphasize that three trials were conducted for each car to ensure accurate and consistent results, considering possible variables like wheel alignment that might affect the outcome.