Required Practical 7: Reaction Time

• What is the method for measuring reaction time?

  • Two people work together
  • Person 1 sits upright on a stool
  • Person 1's dominant arm is placed over the table
  • Person 2 holds a ruler vertically
  • Ruler is dropped at a random time
  • Person 1 catches the ruler
  • Measurement is recorded at the thumb's top
  • Test is repeated several times
  • Mean reaction time is calculated
• What position should person 1 be in during the test?

  Sitting on a stool with upright posture
• How does person 2 initiate the reaction time test?

  By dropping the ruler at a random time
• What should person 2 record after person 1 catches the ruler?

  The measurement at the top of person one's thumb
• Why is it important for person 1 to have a short rest between tests?

  To ensure accurate reaction time measurements
• What is the independent variable in this experiment?

  The person having their reaction time tested
• What is the dependent variable in this experiment?

  The reaction time measured
• What are the control variables in this experiment?

  • Distance between thumb and first finger
  • Measurement taken at the top of the thumb
  • Consistent room conditions (lighting, noise)
• What could happen if control variables change?

  It could affect the reaction time measured
• What other independent variables could be investigated in this experiment?

  • Effect of practice on reaction time
  • Hand used to catch the ruler
  • Impact of caffeine on reaction time
• How could practice affect reaction time?

  Reaction time may shorten with more practice
• How can the dominant hand affect reaction time?

  Dominant hand may have a shorter reaction time
• What is a potential issue when testing the effect of caffeine?

  Other chemicals in cola may affect results
• What should be checked before giving subjects caffeine?

  Medical issues that might be affected
• Where should the test be conducted regarding safety?

  In a lab without hazardous chemicals