Can iPads be used as motion detectors for AP Physics labs?

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    Detector Ipad Motion
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the feasibility of using iPads as motion detectors for AP Physics labs, particularly in a setting where traditional desktop computers and motion detection equipment are unavailable. Participants explore the capabilities of iPads, specifically their onboard accelerometers, and consider alternative methods for data collection in physics experiments.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the possibility of connecting physics devices to an iPad, expressing a lack of familiarity with the device.
  • Another participant points out that iPads have built-in accelerometers, which could be utilized for motion detection.
  • A participant raises concerns about the need for students to be familiar with traditional motion sensors that provide numerical data for analysis.
  • Ideas are proposed about using the accelerometers to collect data during students' commutes, suggesting innovative applications for the technology.
  • One participant shares their experience with an Android app that logs accelerometer data and can export it as a CSV file.
  • A later reply mentions the potential for accessing the camera's range-finding capabilities, though the openness of the operating system is questioned.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that iPads can utilize their built-in accelerometers for motion detection, but there is uncertainty regarding the integration of traditional motion sensors and the familiarity of students with such equipment. Multiple ideas and approaches are presented without a consensus on the best method.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of clarity on how to connect pre-USB Venier equipment to iPads and the potential restrictions of the iPad's operating system regarding app development and hardware access.

Who May Find This Useful

Educators looking for innovative ways to incorporate technology into physics labs, particularly those with limited resources or equipment. Students interested in practical applications of motion detection and data logging using modern devices.

tony873004
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I'll be teaching an AP Physics class in a few weeks. Usually labs are equiped with lots of desktop computers, to which I can add stuff like motion detectors: devices that can input velocities into the computer.

But my lab doesn't have computers. Rather, each student has an iPad. This might be an easy Google question, but I've come up blank so far. Is there ANY type of Physics devices that can connect to an iPad? Can anything other than an iPad charger connect to an iPad? Sorry, but I've been a Windows person all my life, and iPads have suddenly appeared in my life!

We have lots of cool Venier equipment that is pre-USB. Is there any way to make use of this stuff in a classroom with no computers and 1 iPad per student?

Any other iPad advice would be welcome too!
 
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Do you mean an accelerometer? Ipads have accelerometers onboard.
 
Thanks. I didn't know that!

Motion sensors usually feed a string of numbers into a spreadsheet indicating velocity or distance. So you can measure the velocity of a coffee filter as it drops, accelerates, and reaches terminal velocity.

My concern from looking at AP sample questions, is that they expect the students to be familiar with this equipment.

But 10 ideas just jumped into my mind knowing that they all possesses accelerometers. Can they ride to school on the bus while accumulating data? That would be cool to graph their commute.
 
I just checked on my Droid and there are literally thousands of apps available to play with the accelerometers. The very first one I tried datalogged it and emailed me a csv file (attached).
 

Attachments

Thanks. I just downloaded an app for my Android. It was neat to watch the z-value go from 1 g to 0 g as I dropped it a short distance onto my bed.
 
I don't know how open the OS is, but if you could get access to the camera, it has
a bunch of range finding stuff for the auto focus
 

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