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Experiments​

Falling Objects

Experiment #37 from Middle School Science with Vernier

Education Level
Middle School

Video Overview

Introduction

Galileo tried to prove that all falling objects accelerate downward at the same rate. Falling objects do accelerate downward at the same rate in a vacuum. Air resistance, however, can cause objects to fall at different rates in air. Air resistance enables a skydiver’s parachute to slow his or her fall. Because of air resistance, falling objects can reach a maximum velocity or terminal velocity. In this experiment, you will study the velocities of two different falling objects.

Objectives

In this experiment, you will

  • Use a Motion Detector to measure position and velocity.
  • Produce position vs. time and velocity vs. time graphs.
  • Analyze and explain the results.

Sensors and Equipment

This experiment features the following sensors and equipment. Additional equipment may be required.

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Purchase the Lab Book

This experiment is #37 of Middle School Science with Vernier. The experiment in the book includes student instructions as well as instructor information for set up, helpful hints, and sample graphs and data.

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