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Shoot the Target

Dart gun rests against apparatus

Concept Overview:

1. Independence of free fall and initial velocity

Lecturer Procedure

Step(s) to Follow Expected Result
Before continuing, be sure to follow the steps described in the set-up instructions if they have not been done for you.

1. Turn on laser pointer by using the button on the back.

Laser sight on side of gun

2. Move approximately 6-8 feet from the apparatus - be sure that the cord doesn't tangle as you do so.

3. Aim the gun at the target - the red laser will help you.

4. Pull trigger.

As the dart leaves the gun, it passes the photogate, which turns off the electromagnet.  The target will fall.  The dart falls at the same rate, and will still strike the target, pinning it to the board.

***Be sure not to leave the magnet on for an extended period of time - it can get very hot.***


Special note:  The aim on the dart gun is not 100% accurate.  The dart tends to fall, on average, 5 cm lower and about 2 cm to the right of where the laser indicates it should hit the target.  

Transcript

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Identifier
M: K - 004