PHYSICS   LECTURE   DEMONSTRATIONS

M-E2b : Loop-the-Loop (Small)

UNIT: Mechanical energy. Kinetic energy of rolling.
PURPOSE: Illustrate work-kinetic energy theorem. 
EQUIPMENT:
1. Loop-the-loop track on a stand
2. Small orange (super) ball
SUGGESTIONS: 
1. Release a ball from a low position on the longer side of the loop, and note that it fails to complete the run.
2. Release a ball from near the top of the longer side, and note that it easily makes the run.
3. Ask what is the minimum release height. Try.
4. Try dropping from h=2.5R (R=radius of the loop)
5. Try dropping from h=2.7R, then a bit above that height to compensate for rolling friction.
DISCUSSION: --

1.                  2.                  3.
  

1. Releasing the ball
2. Ball rolls down
3. Ball at the top of the loop on its way to completing the run