What are some of the differences between laboratory research and real conditions for transportation? The graphs below, excerpted from The Science of Floating & Boating: Volume 3 from Schottenbauer Publishing, show the differences between a ping pong ball floating in laboratory conditions and in a natural (outdoor) reservoir.
Discussion Questions
- Which graph shows a sine wave?
- Which graph shows chaotic dynamics?
- In Graph 1, the waves were most likely created by: a) an object moving up and down at a regular frequency, b) natural wind?
- In Graph 2, the waves were most likely created by: a) natural wind, b) a boat on the water?
- Describe the range of each graph, including the minimum and maximum of each line in each graph.
- Which graph demonstrates a larger variation (or order of magnitude) in motion? Why?
- On a separate piece of paper, draw the location of the ball as it moves in Graph 1. Include maximum and minimum points. What is the maximum physical distance moved between a consecutive trough and crest?
- On a separate piece of paper, draw the location of the ball as it moves in Graph 2. Include at least 10 points, including maximum and minimum points on each line in the graph. What is the maximum physical distance moved between a consecutive trough and crest?
The following books from Schottenbauer Publishing contain similar types of graphs and data pertaining to the science of fluid dynamics, water, and/or boats:
- The Science of Floating & Boating
- Volume 1: Force & Acceleration
- Volume 2: Force & Acceleration
- Volume 3: Video Analysis
- Fluid Dynamics & The Science of Natural Waterways
- Volume 1: Water Flow Meter & Video Analysis
- The Science of Transportation
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