PURPOSE: Plot graphs of x, v, and a for large-scale motion.
DESCRIPTION: The ultrasonic motion sensor and the Science Workshop Interface are used with a computer to plot graphs of position, velocity, and acceleration. Linear motion can be created by a person walking along a line in front of the motion sensor. A large piece of styrofoam sheet can be used as a reflector for the ultrasound, to keep the curves as smooth as possible. Graphs of x, v, and a can be easily displayed individually or in any combination.
The graphs of position and velocity are quite nice, but the accleration can be a bit noisy, because it is obtained by differentiation of the position vs. time data. Try this before class.
SUGGESTIONS:
REFERENCES: See Demonstration Reference File for Science Workshop Interface and motion sensor manuals and instructions.
EQUIPMENT: PC computer with Science Workshop Interface and ultrasonic motion sensor with styrofoam sheet.
SETUP TIME: 10 min.
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