Pyramid Lab

The purpose of this lab was to recap on all of the standards we learned, including 2.1, 3.1, and 3.2. We were to recognize the relationship between force and distance and then find out if force and distance were actually universally conserved. We used a ramp, force probe, toy car and a simple machine to conduct this lab. 

Important Information and Lab Summary: That data that we recorded proved that force and distance are inversely related to one another, meaning as one increases the other decreases. In this case, as distance increases, force decreases and vice versa. Through this data we are able to conclude that the product of force and distance are universally conserved. It did not matter how fast we were moving the car up the ramp, the same amount of work (energy) was used each time. 

Key Data: 
- W=fd
- work and energy are always conserved
- work is being done when an object is being moved (energy)
- energy = the ability to do work 

Real World Connection: Ramps are props in many different X game sporting events, involving skateboarding and BMX riders to name two. When the ramps are longer and the degree of the ramp is less sharp, it does not cause the skaters to need that much force in order to reach the other side. But when a ramp is shorter and more angular, the skaters need to put in much more force into this shorter amount of distance, even though energy turns out to be conserved.