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Quantitative
Testing Activity
If so instructed by your teacher, print out a worksheet page for
these problems.
Overview
In this activity,
you will use FoilSim to prepare computer generated models of various wing
designs. You will then create models from balsa wood (or some other appropriate
alternative). You will quantitatively test the effectiveness of the models
and the predictions by attaching them to a hinged
beam on a bicycle. The effective lift can then be observed and measured.
You will report on the methods and the results of your experiment.
Materials
FoilSim.
Balsa wood, glue, and
tissue paper to create wing models.
A bicycle modified that
will test your wing models.
Procedure
- Go to the backround
page and gather information
on various wing shapes and the terms associated with wings. Briefly list
the information you discover and tell how this will affect your models.
- Set values in FoilSim
to approximate wing design. The area should be set at 1 square foot, while
the altitude should be set at 800 to 850 feet. Find the speed needed for
your wing design to produce .25 N, .5 N, and .75 N. Record these speeds
and the angle of the wing model.
- Using balsa wood, create
wing models based on your computer generated models. You can decide the
dimensions that create one square foot of area. (Ex. 1' x 1', .5' x 2')
- Attach the models to
the modified bicycle, making sure to place the models at the correct angle.
- Attach masses to the
bar. Run three trials using 25 g, 50 g, and 75 g.
- As the rider pulls
forward, record your observations. Make careful observations. As the mass
starts to lift, start the stopwatch and mark the location of the bicycle.
With the rider maintaining a steady speed, time the bicycle for a certain
distance traveled.
- Measure the distance
traveled and record the time and distance.
- Complete the questions
and associated calculations on the quantitative
worksheet.
- Design a report, either
written or a presentation, that explains your experimental procedures, your
results, and why your results were obtained.
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