Explosions
in Small vs. Large Containers
Purpose:
The purpose of this
experiment is to determine whether more force is applied out the top of
a small bottle or a larger bottle when an explosive device is detonated
inside.
Hypothesis:
Because it is expected
that more momentum will be wasted in the larger volume of the larger container,
it is hypothesized that the smaller container well recieve more force with
which to propel the golf ball forward.
Equipment:
2 containers (one
larger then the other), one golf ball, 2 m-90 class "C" explosives, one
butane lighter.
Procedure:
Take one of the m-90's
and pin the wick such that the ball is on top of the mouth of the container
and holding the firecracker there. Light the firecracker, and get away,
make sure the golf ball stays on top. Observe any results. Repeat the procedure
with the other container.
Observations:
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Larger Container
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Smaller Container
|
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Conclusion:
Based on the observation
it is apparent that the hypothesis was correct in assuming the smaller
bottle would propel the golf ball higher. One factor that was not accounted
for however was that maybe the fact that the bottles were not stablized
may have influenced the results. Perhaps if the bottles were not free to
move more energy would have been applied to the golf ball. Since the larger
bottle took more momentum to move then the smaller, then it is apparent
that more energy was used on the bottle as opposed to on the ball.
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Scientific AmeriKen would like to thank Jeff Smith for his Self
Composed Music.