Research Question: How is the position of the cart on the ramp affected by time?
To determine how the position of the cart is affected by time, we need to have an initial position set and time the cart as it is rolling. We are going to collect data two different ways in order to ensure accuracy and precision with our outcome of data. We will be using motion sensor and video analysis to collect data.
Variables:
Independent Variable: Time (sec) Dependent Variable: Position (meters) Controlling Variable(s): Type of cart, surface of ramp, incline of ramp, and initial position.
Lab Materials + Setup:
Cart Ramp (minimum 2 meters) Adjustable Jack Motion Sensor + LabQuest Mini iPhone (Video Camera) Computer w/ LoggerPro
This video shows how the experiment was carried out from our perspective.
Procedures:
Motion Sensor (Trial 1): Step 1: Plug the Motion Sensor into the LabQuest Mini and then plug the LabQuest into the computer opening up LoggerPro. Step 2: Place the Motion Sensor on the start of the cart ramp so that the cart travels away from it. Step 3: Place the cart on the ramp at the 20cm line, which will be considered our initial point at 0cm. Step 4: Simultaneously, start the trial on LoggerPro and let the cart slide down the ramp at the same time Step 5: Stop the cart before it falls off the ramp.
Video Analysis (Trial 2): Step 1: Place the cart at an initial point on the cart ramp. Step 2: Set up the camera to the side of the ramp to show the movement of the buggy from right to left. Step 3: Record a video of the cart going across the screen and make sure the whole ramp can be seen in the frame. Step 4: Import the video onto LoggerPro and use it for video analysis.