Sensor Cart Physics

Sensor Cart Physics, authored by Roger F. Larson, features 21 guided-inquiry investigations using the Vernier Go Direct® Sensor Cart. It provides a stimulating structure to explore introductory through AP-level concepts in kinematics, dynamics, and conservation of energy and momentum.

The Go Direct® Sensor Cart is equipped with three sensors: a motion encoder wheel that reports the cart’s position, velocity, and acceleration; a force sensor with a range of ±50 N; and a 3-axis accelerometer—providing hands-on opportunities to explore basic physics principles. The sensor data are transmitted via Bluetooth® wireless technology to devices for inspection in the free Graphical Analysis™ 4 app.

Each of the investigations provides an experiment video or photo to offer guidance. Links to internet background information are included in the Introduction which tie the topics to real-world phenomena. The links can serve as pre-lab assignments to introduce each investigation. The Research Question and Predicted Outcome sections are incorporated to engage student interest and provide a meaningful purpose for the investigation.

Note that these experiments challenge students to develop their own experimental procedures and record their data without pre-made data tables. Students are directed to write their own conclusions in response to research questions and to design their own extensions to the included experiments. This set of experiments complements guided-inquiry and Modeling Instruction™ classrooms.