Physics Lab Equipment

LEMI-25 Apparatus of Collision and Projectile Motion

LEMI-25 Apparatus of Collision and Projectile Motion

Features

  • Clear physical phenomena

  • Stable and reliable

  • Affordable



Introduction


Collisions between objects are commonplace in both nature and engineering. The principles of conservation of energy and momentum are fundamental concepts in mechanics and are crucial for understanding the dynamics of moving objects. The LEMI-25 Apparatus of Collision and Projectile Motion is designed to explore these concepts by simulating the collision between two balls, analyzing the swing motion of one ball before the collision, and studying the projectile motion of the other ball after the collision.


This experiment offers students the opportunity to observe the conservation of momentum during a collision and to use the laws of mechanics to solve real-world problems related to projectile motion. By measuring the final impact position of the collided ball, students can theoretically calculate the height of the swing ball before the collision. The difference between the theoretical and experimental results helps to quantify energy loss during the collision. With this knowledge, the height of the swing ball can be corrected, and the final hit point can be accurately targeted to the designated position.


Constructed from high-strength aluminum alloy, the rail provides a stable and durable surface for the experiment. The scales on both the rail and the slider are on the same plane to eliminate parallax errors, ensuring precise measurements. The rod features a conical flat top with weak magnetism, which allows the ball to be securely positioned at the center. The small contact area minimizes frictional resistance during collision, enhancing the accuracy of results. The apparatus includes adjustable components that ensure repeatable experimental outcomes, allowing for consistent measurements and easy setup for each trial.


The LEMI-25 Apparatus enables the following experiments:

1. Study the Collision of Two Balls: Investigate how momentum and energy are transferred during the collision of two balls. Observe the swing motion of one ball before the collision and the projectile motion of the other ball after the collision.

2. Energy Loss Calculation: Calculate the energy lost during the collision by comparing the theoretical and experimental final impact positions.

3. Projectile Motion: Use the experimental results to study the trajectory and dynamics of a projectile after collision, applying the principles of projectile motion to determine key characteristics such as velocity and distance.


Through these experiments, students will understand the principles of conservation of momentum and energy in collision scenarios, learn how to apply mechanical laws to solve practical problems in projectile motion, and gain experience in conducting precise measurements and analyzing experimental results to assess energy loss in real-world systems.


The detailed instruction manual includes experimental configurations and clear setup instructions, step-by-step guidance through each experiment, including data collection and analysis, example results to assist with data interpretation and result comparison, and in-depth explanations of the theory behind collisions and projectile motion.


For further information on the LEMI-25 Apparatus of Collision and Projectile Motion and how it can enhance your understanding of mechanics and motion principles, please refer to the  Experimental Contents . This apparatus is an invaluable tool for studying the practical applications of conservation laws in collisions and projectile motion.


Main Parts and Specifications

DescriptionSpecifications
Scaled postScale marked range: 0 ~ 20 cm, with electromagnet
Swing ballSteel, diameter: 20 mm
Collided ballDiameter: 20 mm and 18 mm, respectively
Guide railLength: 35 cm
Ball support post rodDiameter: 4 mm
Swing support postLength: 45 cm, with height adjustable swing ball hanger
Target trayLength: 30 cm; width: 12 cm


Part List

DescriptionQty
Guide rail1 (with 2 leveling screws)
Slider 11 (for holding scaled post)
Slider 21 (for holding scaled post)
Scaled post1
Swing ball hanger assembly 1 (with lock screw, height adjust screw, swing string & swing ball)
Electromagnet1 (with armature, mark plate, switch box)
Swing post1
Collided ball2 (diameter: 20 mm and 18 mm, respectively)
Target tray1
Line level1
Carbon (graphite) paper1 set
DC power supply1 (DC 6V)
Instruction manual1 (PDF)


LEMI-25 Pendulum and Projectile Apparatus.jpg

Schematic of system

1. Leveling screw, 2.Guide rail, 3. Slider, 4. Scaled post, 5. Mark plate, 6. Swing ball, 7. Electromagnet, 8. Armature, 9. Swing string, 10. Lock screw, 11. String adjust screw, 12. Swing post, 13. Collided ball, 14. Ball support, 15. Slider, 16. Tray

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