Distance vs Time

Procedure

1. Click graph shown here to enlarged view and describe in words how you would walk to produce this target graph. Sketch/record the graph in your notes.

2. With the MotionDistance experiment loaded into Logger Pro, test your prediction by attempting to replicate the distance vs. time graph. Do this by positioning yourself in front of the motion detector and clicking the "collect" button. When you hear the Motion Detector begin to click, walk in such a way that the graph of your motion matches the target graph on the computer screen.

Hint: Sometimes it is easier to replicate a graph with movement of a book in front of the motion sensor instead of moving yourself. Just recognize the sensor will notice the first thing it sees and try to understand the motion needed to replicate the graph.

3. If you were not successful, repeat the process until your motion closely matches the graph on the screen. Sketch in your notes the graph of your best attempt.

4. Now attempt to replicate the second graph shown here.

5. Answer the analysis questions for this part next before proceeding to the Velocity/Time part.

Analysis

1. Describe how you walked for each of the graphs that you matched.
2. Explain the significance of the slope of a distance vs. time graph. Include a discussion of positive and negative slope.
3. What type of motion is occurring when the slope of a distance vs. time graph is zero?
4. What type of motion is occurring when the slope of a distance vs. time graph is constant?
5. What type of motion is occurring when the slope of a distance vs. time graph is changing? Test your answer to this question using the Motion Detector.