Activity 3—A Speedy Slide

Notes for Teachers

 

 

Concepts

Function explored: parabolic

The motion of sliding down a playground slide is used to illustrate the real-world concept of changing velocity due to friction.

Materials

Ÿcalculator (see page 2 for available models)

ŸCBR 2™ motion detector

Ÿunit-to-CBR 2™ or I/O unit-to-unit cable

ŸEasyData application or RANGER program

ŸPlayground slide

Hints

The use of a playground area with several slides is preferable for this experiment. The slides should be straight. Slides with other shapes could be used in an extension. For safety reasons, remind your students not to attempt to pass each other while on the slide steps.

You may wish to carry the interfaces, calculators, and motion detectors to the playground area in a box or boxes, and distribute the equipment to your students there. Remind your students that the Motion Detector does not properly detect objects closer than 15cm.

Depending on the type of slides that are available, you may wish to change the way your students position themselves for data collection. Some slides have large platforms where the student with the Motion Detector and the student with the calculator and interface can be located.

Students can use wax paper, slippery cloth, sand, and other materials to increase their speed. To enable your students to be prepared, be sure to alert them to Part II in advance.

Typical plots

A Speedy Slide

Typical answers

1.See the Sample Results.

2.In the Sample Results, the Part 2 speed was 0.90 m/sec greater than the Part 1 speed. Wax paper was used to decrease friction and increase speed.

3.Answers will vary. Speeds will differ because of differences such as contact area, weight, streamlining, and the use of low-friction materials.

4.Answers will vary.

5.Increasing the height of the slide should increase speed.

6.The stone dropped from the top of the slide should hit the ground first because friction and the incline of the slide slow the rolling stone more.

7.The level part at the bottom of a slide slows sliders and prevents injuries.

Extensions

Design and carry out a plan to measure speed or velocity on a different piece of playground equipment.

Have a contest to see who in the class or group can obtain the greatest speed going down a slide.

Sample results

 

 

Speed (m/sec)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trial 1

Trial 2

Trial 3

Average

 

 

 

 

 

Part 1

1.97

2.02

2.00

2.00

 

 

 

 

 

 

Part 2

2.80

3.07

2.82

2.90

 

 

 

 

 

 

18 GETTING STARTED WITH THE CBR 2™ SONIC MOTION DETECTOR

© 2000 VERNIER SOFTWARE & TECHNOLOGY

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Texas Instruments CBR 2 manual Activity 3-A Speedy Slide, Sample results, Extensions
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CBR 2 specifications

Texas Instruments has long been a prominent player in the field of educational technology, and the CBR 2 (Calculator-Based Ranger 2) is a testament to their commitment to enhancing the learning experience, particularly in the realms of mathematics and science. Designed to complement graphing calculators, the CBR 2 is a versatile data-collection device that empowers students and educators to explore real-world phenomena through hands-on experimentation.

One of the main features of the CBR 2 is its ability to capture a wide array of data through various sensors. The device is equipped with an array of built-in sensors that can measure motion, including speed and distance. This makes it an invaluable tool for physics experiments, allowing students to visualize concepts such as speed, acceleration, and trajectory.

The CBR 2 utilizes ultrasonic technology to detect distance through sound waves. This feature enables students to conduct experiments that demonstrate principles of sound and motion in a tangible way. With a range of up to 6 meters, the CBR 2 provides accurate and reliable measurements that can be graphically represented using compatible Texas Instruments graphing calculators.

The device is highly user-friendly, with simple interfaces that allow users to easily collect and analyze data. The integration with graphing calculators simplifies the process of data visualization, enabling students to create graphs in real time as they conduct experiments. This capability is particularly beneficial in encouraging interactive learning and fostering a deeper understanding of scientific principles.

The CBR 2 is designed to be portable and durable, making it suitable for classroom settings as well as outdoor experiments. Its compact size and lightweight construction ensure that it can be easily transported, allowing educators to take learning beyond the confines of the classroom.

The CBR 2 also supports various modes of data collection, including Event Mode, which allows users to trigger data collection based on specific events. This feature is useful in demonstrating concepts such as projectile motion and collisions, providing students with hands-on experience that enhances their learning.

In summary, Texas Instruments' CBR 2 is a powerful educational tool that enables students to collect, analyze, and visualize data in an engaging manner. With its built-in sensors, ultrasonic technology, and seamless integration with graphing calculators, the CBR 2 stands out as a versatile device that enriches the educational experience. It not only provides a platform for conducting experiments but also cultivates critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of scientific concepts, preparing students for a future in STEM fields.
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