Distance vs Potential Energy Lab

Elastic Potential Energy is is energy stored as a result of applying a force to deform an elastic object. The energy is stored until the force is removed and the object springs back to its original shape, doing work in the process. 

Research Question: How does the amount of distance in a system affect the amount of elastic potential energy?

Experiment Materials:

1. Ruler
2. Rubberband
3. Tape (optional--to mark starting/ending locations of the cup)

Experiment Procedures:

1. Clear a shooting range where you can shoot elastics without hitting anyone
2. Have one selected shooter pull back on the elastic--measure how far you pull back.
3. Release the elastic.
4. Measure how far the elastic traveled.
5. Record the distance pulled back and the distance travelled in the table on slide 7.
6. Repeat 2 more times, pulling back the same distance. Calculate the averages distances.
7. Repeat, stretching the elastic to 2 different lengths.