English

Science ~ investigating friction

Using a catapult board and different surfaces, we conducted an investigation to establish how far a plastic block travelled when a defined amount of force was placed upon it. We predicted that the more friction there was between the block and the surface, the shorter distance the block would travel.

To ensure the test was fair, we had one variable which was the surface ~ tin foil, cling film, a towel, carpet, underlay, a blanket, fabric and a bath mat. We ensured that the elastic band was pulled back to the same increment each time and the distance travelled by the block was measured accurately.

In line with our prediction, we established that the greater the friction between the block and the surface, the less distance it travelled and the less friction between the block and the surface, the greater the distance it travelled.