5.4.3 Measuring Speed

• What is the formula for calculating speed?

  Speed = Distance / Time
• What equipment is needed to measure speed accurately?

  • Measuring tape or ruler (to measure distance)
  • Stopwatch (to measure time)
  • Speed sensor or radar gun (optional for accuracy)
  • Motion sensor (optional for data collection)
• What are the steps for manually measuring speed?

  1. Mark a specific distance along the path.

  2. Measure the distance using a measuring tape or ruler.

  3. Start timing with a stopwatch when the object begins to move.

  4. Stop timing when the object reaches the end of the distance.

  5. Calculate speed using the formula Speed = Distance / Time.
• If an object travels 50 meters in 10 seconds, what is its speed?

  5 m/s
• How do you measure speed using a motion sensor?

  1. Place the motion sensor at the starting point.

  2. Calibrate the sensor according to instructions.

  3. Start the sensor when the object begins to move.

  4. Analyze the data collected to calculate speed.
• What should you ensure for accurate speed measurements?

  Ensure accurate measurement of distance and time, and avoid parallax errors.
• What are practical considerations for measuring speed?

  • Ensure accurate distance measurement.
  • Use a precise timing device.
  • Avoid parallax errors.
  • Conduct measurements in a controlled environment.
• What is the objective of the example experiment measuring the speed of a toy car?

  To measure the speed of a toy car over a set distance.
• What is the procedure for measuring the speed of a toy car?

  1. Measure a 2-meter track on a flat surface.

  2. Place the toy car at the start.

  3. Start the stopwatch when the car begins moving.

  4. Stop the stopwatch when the car crosses the finish line.

  5. Record the time taken.
• If a toy car takes 4 seconds to travel 2 meters, what is its speed?

  0.5 m/s
• What do speed-time graphs represent?

  • Speed plotted on the y-axis.
  • Time plotted on the x-axis.
  • Slope represents acceleration.
  • Area under the graph represents distance traveled.
• What are the key points in speed measurement?

  • Measure distance and time.
  • Calculate speed using Speed = Distance / Time.
  • Ensure accurate measurements and account for external factors.
  • Use appropriate tools like stopwatches and measuring tapes.