Objective: To determine if a steel ball is elastic by measuring its deformation under various loads and observing its ability to return to its original shape.

Materials:

1. Steel ball

2. Vernier calipers or micrometer

3. Weight set or calibrated spring scale

4. Support stand or rigid surface

5. Graph paper

6. Pen or pencil

Procedure:

1. Measure the diameter of the steel ball using a vernier caliper or micrometer. Record this measurement as the initial diameter (D0) in millimeters (mm).

2. Place the support stand or rigid surface on a level surface and secure the steel ball on top of it.

3. Attach the weight set or calibrated spring scale to the steel ball using a string or hook. Ensure that the weight is suspended directly below the ball and is not touching the support surface.

4. Gradually apply a series of known weights (or forces) to the steel ball, starting with a small weight and increasing it in increments. Record the weight (or force) applied and the corresponding diameter of the ball after each load application.

5. Use graph paper to plot a graph with the weight (or force) on the x-axis and the diameter of the ball on the y-axis.

6. Repeat steps 3-5 for multiple load applications, ensuring that the weight range covers both elastic and plastic deformation regions.

7. Remove the weights and allow the steel ball to rest for a few minutes. Observe if the ball returns to its original diameter (D0) or if there is any permanent deformation.

Expected Outcome:

1. The graph of weight (or force) versus diameter should show a linear relationship initially, indicating elastic deformation. As the weight increases, the graph should deviate from linearity, indicating plastic deformation.

2. After removing the weights, the steel ball should return to its original diameter (D0) if it is elastic. If there is any permanent deformation, the ball is considered to be plastic.

Conclusion:

By analyzing the deformation behavior of the steel ball under different loads and observing its ability to return to its original shape, you can determine whether the steel ball is elastic or not. If the ball exhibits both elastic and plastic deformation and fully returns to its original size after load removal, it can be classified as an elastic material.