The Effects of Magnet Strength, Metal Type, and Number of Passes Over Magnets on the Decrease in Linear Velocity of a Small Car

The objective of this investigation was to determine which factors affect the decrease in linear velocity of a small car released from the top of a ramp. Additionally, the magnitude of each factors' significance on decrease in velocity was to be assessed. To perform this experiment, Hot Wheels track was taped to a sturdy prop, extended along the floor over a number of magnets, and then a pair of photo gates was used to detect the car's velocity before and after the magnets. The initial velocity was then subtracted from the final velocity to determine the net decrease in velocity of the car. The various factors of magnet strength, metal type, and number of passes over magnets were applied to this research in order to determine which, if any, of these factors had a significant effect on the decrease in linear velocity of the car. Each of these factors were separated into a high (+), standard, and low (-) values. By using a three-factor design of experiment, the effects of each factor along with the interaction effects between them were calculated. The research concluded that the only significant factor was magnet strength and that there were no significant interaction effects.

Research Done By:

Jason Gargrave
Sterling Heights High School

Ryan Kaput
Sterling Heights High School

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