Abstract
Recently, two technologies: video analysis and mobile device sensors have
considerable impacted Physics teaching. However, in general, these techniques
are usually used separately. Here, we focus on a less-explored feature: the
possibility of using supplementary video analysis and smartphone (or other
mobile devices) sensors. First, we review some experiments reported in the
literature using both tools. Next, we present an experiment specially suited to
compare both resources and discuss in detail some typical results. We found
that, as a rule, video analysis provides distances or angular variables, while
sensors gives velocity or acceleration (either linear or angular). The
numerical derivation of higher derivatives, i.e. acceleration, usually implies
noisier results while the opposite process (the numerical integration of a
temporal evolution) gives rise to the accumulation of error. In a classroom
situation, the comparison between these two techniques offers an opportunity to
discuss not only concepts related to the specific experiment but also with the
experimental and numerical aspects including their pros and cons.
Description
Smartphone sensors and video analysis: two allies in the Physics laboratory battle field
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