Pyramid

Purpose: The purpose of this lab was to observe the relationship between force and distance as they relate to the larger concept of "work." By manipulating distance (changing the height of the ramp) we were able to observe how force and work changed. This eventually helped us answer the Big Question, ""Is the product of foce and distance universally conserved?"

How?: To start, our group set up a ramp across our table; one end resting on the table and the other supported by a stack of books. Starting at the lower end, we used the hook connected to our LabQuest2 to pull our 750g car up the ramp. We repeated this action 3 times; however, each time we adjusted the stack of books to make our ramp steeper. 

Conclusion:  By examining our data table, my group was able to conclude that force and distance are inversely proportional, meaning that if we decrease distance, force increases and vice versa. This also means that work stays the same, and is yes, universally conserved.

The Real World: For homework, we investigated how hidden ramps may solve the mystery to pyramid construction. Ramps may have allowed Egyptians to construct such massive structures made of millions of stone blocks. Below is a link that helps explain the mystery and use behind these ramps.  http://www.archaeology.org/0705/etc/pyramid.html

Also, ramps are seen in many aspects of our everyday life. They reduce the amount of force
we use, making our lives a whole lot easier.