Final answer:
The experiment involves calculating kinetic energy as objects fall from different heights, using the equation KE = 1/2mv^2, where m is the constant mass of 0.250 kg and v is the velocity, which varies with height.
Step-by-step explanation:
Calculating Kinetic Energy
The experiment you described is focused on understanding the conversion of gravitational potential energy into kinetic energy (KE) when an object falls. With a constant mass of 0.250 kg, you are tasked with calculating the expected KE at various velocities upon impact, using the equation KE = 1/2mv^2. To find the velocity (v), you will have to use the formula derived from the potential energy at the height from which it is dropped, equating this to the kinetic energy, which gives you v = √(2*9.80*h). Here, h is the height in meters from which you drop the object, and 9.80 m/s2 is the acceleration due to gravity. During the trials, mass remains unchanged, so varying heights will influence the velocity and consequently the kinetic energy of the bottle.
To apply this, you would use the mass (0.250 kg) and the calculated velocity for each drop height to determine the KE. Remember that the change in potential energy (mgh) should equal the kinetic energy if air resistance is neglected.