How do the stretch properties of a rubber band compare to these of a spring? Students discover Hooke’s law by experimenting with two different elastic materials—springs and rubber bands—and graphically determining the stretch distance and the force exerted by those materials. Students learn that not all elastic materials follow this law. The effect of the spring constant on simple harmonic motion is also explored as students measure the frequency of oscillating rubber bands and springs. Detailed instructions and Teacher Notes are provided. Standard laboratory equipment, such as support stands and clamps, are required.
Super Value Kit is complete for 8 student groups. All materials are reusable. A weight set is required and available separately. Replacement springs are also available separately.
Correlation to Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)†
Science & Engineering Practices
Analyzing and interpreting data
Disciplinary Core Ideas
MS-PS2.A: Forces and Motion HS-PS2.A: Forces and Motion
Crosscutting Concepts
Cause and effect
Performance Expectations
HS-PS2-1. Analyze data to support the claim that Newton’s second law of motion describes the mathematical relationship among the net force on a macroscopic object, its mass, and its acceleration.