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Introduction to Motion

Investigation 1: Distance(Position)-Time Graphs of Your Motion

To find out How you can measure your motion with a motion detector

How your motion looks as a distance (position)-time graph

Materials

Logger Pro for Windows 95ä

motion detector (also called a sonic ranger)

Universal Laboratory Interface (ULI)

2 meter stick

Introduction In this investigation, you will use a motion detector to plot a distance (position)-time graph of your motion. As you walk (or jump, or run), the graph on the computer screen displays how far away from the detector you are.

• "Distance" is short for "distance from the motion detector."

• The motion detector is the origin from which distances are measured.

• It detects the closest object directly in front of it (including your arms if you swing them as you walk). The motion detector is sensitive enough to measure first one leg then the other as you walk. Holding a large book or other flat object in front of you will help you get smoother graphs.

• It will not correctly measure anything closer than 1/2 meter. When making your graphs don't go closer than 1/2 meter from the motion detector.

Activity 1 - Making Distance-Time Graphs

Activity 2 - Matching a Distance Graph

Activity 3 - Other Distance Time Graphs

Activity 4 - Making Velocity Graphs

Activity 5 - Matching a Velocity Graph

Activity 6 - Predicting Velocity Graphs from Distance Graphs

Activity 7 - Predicting Distance Graphs from Velocity Graphs