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Effects of Friction on a Moving Ball
🔬 Lab Introduction

Scientific Question: How does surface type affect how far a ball travels?

In this activity you will investigate how friction affects the motion of a rolling ball. You will collect data using a simulation, then use that data to answer analysis questions.

Friction is a force that acts between two surfaces in contact. Different surfaces create different amounts of friction, which changes how quickly a moving object slows down and stops.

Fair test reminder: The ramp angle is fixed at 30° so you are only changing ONE variable — the surface type.

You will:

  1. Make a prediction about which surface will create the most friction
  2. Collect data — 3 trials per surface on 5 different surfaces
  3. Build a bar graph of your results (10 pts)
  4. Answer 7 analysis questions (75 pts)
  5. Write a conclusion (15 pts)
🔍 Preview — the 5 surfaces you will test
🤔 Make a Prediction Not graded

Before you collect data, make a prediction. Think about what you already know about surfaces and friction.

Which surface do you predict will create the MOST friction and stop the ball the soonest? Why?

Choose from: Wood Floor, Linoleum, Tile Floor, Rubber Mat, Carpet

0/500
Remember: There are no wrong predictions! A prediction is your best guess based on what you already know.
📊 Collect Your Data Not graded

Roll the ball 3 times on each surface. The angle is locked at 30° — you are only changing the surface.

📐 Ramp angle locked at 30° — you are testing surface type only
Choose a surface:
0 of 15 trials complete
Choose a surface and roll the ball!
📋 Your Data Table
Surface Trial 1 (cm) Trial 2 (cm) Trial 3 (cm) Average (cm)
📊 Build Your Bar Graph 10 points

Look at your data table below, then type each surface's average distance into the box directly below its bar. The bar will grow as you type!

Hint: Use the Average column from the table below. Round to the nearest whole number.
📋 Your Data (Average column → use these values)
Surface Trial 1 (cm) Trial 2 (cm) Trial 3 (cm) Average (cm) ←
Type each average into the box below its bar:
Enter your average distance for each surface
📊 Your Bar Graph
Question 1 of 7
✅ Write Your Conclusion 15 points

Was your prediction correct? Write a conclusion that:

  1. States which surface created the most friction and which created the least
  2. Explains what your data showed about how surface type affects friction
  3. Compares your prediction to what you actually found
0/800
Scoring: 15 points for any complete response of 30+ words. Your teacher may also read and comment on it.
🏆 Your Results
0
out of 100
📋 Score Breakdown
📊 Your Data
SurfaceTrial 1Trial 2Trial 3Average

Your conclusion: