Release the ball from rest, and when it comes to a halt on the carpet, measure and record the horizontal distance that it has traveled. At the instant of release, the ball has potential energy. As it rolls down the ramp, the potential energy is converted to kinetic energy. We will assume that all of the potential energy becomes kinetic, with no losses. When the ball leaves the ramp and begins to roll across the carpet, it slows down and finally stops.
Work is done on the ball until there is no kinetic energy left.
If we assume no energy lost on the ramp, then the amount of potential energy to begin is the same as the amount of work required to stop the ball. By comparing the release height to the travel distance, we can verify the relationship. Plot your points very carefully, and as accurately as possible. Use a ruler to draw the best straight line indicated by your data points. Questions Compare the slope of your line with the ratios you calculated for each data.