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Re: [Phys-l] apps for physics

A quick paste below

From website:
< http://scienceblogs.com/dotphysics/2010/04/where_is_the_accelerometer_in.php>

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Measurement methods
You will not believe how many different ways I tried to rotate this iPod. I wanted to do it with stuff you could maybe find at home. My first failed attempt was to build a small Lego centrifuge (clearly, this guy knows how to build a home made centrifuge). I finally settled on this awesome PASCO rotating platform. It is great because you can stand or sit on it if you don't mind getting sick from spinning. And then, how do you get it to rotate at a constant speed. I tried some complicated rotation device, but it turns out that if you just give it a good spin, it won't slow down that much.

I found the iPhone app AccelGraph. Not a perfect app, but I think it is the best free one that could do the job. Originally, I had planned to use app AccelMeter because it has a great visual display. I was going to jailbreak my iPod so I could use VNC and record the screen. Failed. Anyway, using VNC makes it easier to start and stop the acceleration recording (especially since I mount the iPod with the glass down).

After making the video, I used Tracker Video Analysis to determine the angular velocity of the iPod. Note - autotracking feature on Tracker is the awesome.
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Paul Lulai
Physics Teacher
St Anthony Village S.H.
3303 33rd Ave NE
St Anthony Village, MN 55418

612-706-1146
plulai@stanthony.k12.mn.us
http://www.stanthony.k12.mn.us/hsscience/ ;

-----Original Message-----
From: phys-l-bounces@carnot.physics.buffalo.edu [mailto:phys-l-bounces@carnot.physics.buffalo.edu] On Behalf Of Souder Dwight
Sent: Friday, January 28, 2011 6:21 PM
To: Forum for Physics Educators
Subject: [Phys-l] apps for physics

Recently, I got a new toy...errrr...tool, an ipod touch (4G). I was looking at the app store searching for physics related apps. I was wondering what do some of you, who have it, have on their ipods? Are there any apps you would recommend that may be beneficial for my physics classes (free apps are preferred)?

I did download a bubble level app that also gives a digital readout of the angle (supposedly accurate to 0.1 degree). By possibly attaching a straw, to look through, on the long side of the ipod or attaching a laser pointer, I could use it as a clinometer/sextant.

In a couple of weeks, I'm taking my physics students to a local ski resort to explore the various physics of tubing. The students will be using the "traditional" methods and instruments to measure the various aspects of tubing. I would like to test the potential of incorporating the ipod into the lab. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Have a great day!
Dwight Souder
Crestview HS
Ashland, OH