Purpose

The pig and its string trace a conical pendulum and allow a perfect opportunity for calculations and measurements of circular motion.

Discussion

The Flying Pig Lab offers a playful yet instructive way for students to explore the principles of rotational motion and centripetal force. By observing the movement of a flying pig toy, students are able to analyze the forces involved in circular motion and apply mathematical models to measure and predict the velocity of a rotating object. The concepts explored in this lab are directly applicable to various real-world scenarios, including the study of satellites orbiting planets or the motion of vehicles on curved roads. By understanding how centripetal force operates and how velocity is influenced by factors such as radius and tension, students gain insights into the broader implications of circular motion in both natural and engineered systems.