Question

What are the different ways that I can minimize error in oscillation of a rolling sphere in a bowl lab?

Answer 1

Regarding a ball rolling in a bowl, we can reduce the error in oscillations as follows:

• Increase the 'smoothness' of the curvature of both the sphere & the bowl. This will further reduce rolling resistance of the sphere & prevent unwanted minute bumps or 'pimples' that affect the accuracy of the determined oscillation.
• Again, reduce the rolling resistance of both the objects by changing the materials used . But be careful not to make the surfaces ultra smooth as the sphere rolling down the bowl due to gravitational acceleration could lead to 'slipping' of the sphere. Conduct trial and error methods to determine the best bet.
• Enclose the whole system in vacuum. Air adds drag to the sphere when it is in motion. Eliminating it will reduce the error even further when attempting to observe the experiment. However, note that this can make the system 'undamped' if the system is a freely oscillating pendulum. In the given system however, the frictional force provides the necessary damping force, & will make the sphere eventually stop after many oscillations.