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*****************************************************************************

Jonah

The time taken depends inversely on the downwards acceleration (i.e.  a larger
downwards force will result in a shorter times). The force is 'mg' minus the
upwards component of force due to the track (the 'reaction') - the shallower the
track the higher the reaction force and the lower the overall downwards force.
vertical track ->  force =mg
horizontal track -> downwards force =0 (time taken is infinite)

Clearly the time taken depends on track shape.  The fastest path is an inverted
cycloid (a cycloid is the figure drawn by a point on a rolling wheel)

gkm

> ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology Centers
> Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related institutions.
> *****************************************************************************
>
> OK, here's a question for ya...
>
>
>
> Say you've got an exhibit where two balls roll down tracks. One goes down a
> straight inclined plane (maybe a 40 degree angle), the other goes down a
> wavy path (steeper slope in parts, but also some uphills). You may well have
> this exhibit at your center.
>
>
>
> Experiment shows that the ball on the wavy track hits the bottom first, even
> though it has to travel further. But reconciling theory to experiment is
> where it gets dicey. Why does this happen? We've had detailed debate on this
> and what should be in the signage.
>
>
>
> And ironically, this exhibit is in our kids area. Draw what conclusions you
> will from that about concept + process.
>
>
>
> Help me, fellow physics geeks!
>
> Jonah Cohen
>
> Outreach & Public Programs Manager
>
> Science Center of Connecticut
>
>
>
> "On blind faith they place reliance,
>
> what we need more of is science"
>
>            -MC Hawking
>
>
>
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***********************************************************************
More information about the Informal Science Education Network and the
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message  SIGNOFF ISEN-ASTC-L in the BODY of a message to
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