Scientific methods

(1) Apply our knowledge on the scientific method by posing a question related to the equation for
terminal velocity for a falling coffee filter. Be sure to note that we want to confirm whether
or not one quantity on one side of the equation is true if we measure a quantity on the other
side. In other words, to determine vT , what do we change and measure?
(2) When writing a hypothesis, we always want to make an attempt to answer the question. So,
what should we expect as the true result?
(3) Within our procedures, we want to show two results that represent:
i. A falling coffee filter fully open.
ii. A falling coffee filter rolled into a ball.
With that, design an experiment that tests both cases. We want to measure time the coffee
filter takes to fall while keeping its height the same. Our other known quantities are air
density (ρair ≈ 1.2). Another measured quantity is surface area. Be able to determine that.
(4) Collect data on several instances of time for both cases, and be sure to include errors. We
want the height to be the same for each trial, and for optimal results, a suggested height is
h = 2 meters. Include a table of data for your data collection.
(5) Generate a plot for velocity versus time. Clearly, our equation for terminal velocity doesn’t
include time. How should we go about relating time to final velocity? Usage of Python, Excel,
or Desmos are all optional programs we can apply, but be sure to include a plot that can be
presented in a professional manner or setting.
(6) Generate a function with velocity as a function of time, v(t) by eye for the curve of best fit.
Be able to determine at approximately the time at which an object reaches terminal velocity.
(7) Make a prediction on the time for a flat and rolled up coffee filter to reach terminal velocity
given its surface area (remember, we measured and calculated this). Then, make a prediction
for a falling basketball based on its surface area (See Quiz 1 for reference).
(8) Writing a conclusion be sure to restate your question on whether or not your experimental
results supported your hypothesis. Lastly, answer the following questions:
i. What can we say about the velocity versus time plot for both cases?
ii. and general behavior in the equation for terminal velocity?
iii. If we were wanting to dramatically decrease the time an object reaches terminal velocity
(say a parachute), what factors do we need to change? and will this be the same if an
object were in water instead of air?