Properties of an electronic accelerometer and the possible uses in Mechanics teaching

Abstract

We present the basic properties of an electronic accelerometer and some possibilities for its use in Mechanics teaching practices proposals for an experimental Physics lab. An accelerometer when tightly coupled to a body, allows the direct reading of the set acceleration. From the acceleration it is possible to obtain information on various physical quantities of the kinematics and dynamics, such as velocity, acceleration and force. We present the physical and operational characteristics of the accelerometer and the electronic circuit for measuring and processing the electrical signal obtained as the output device. We present results of measurements performed on two practices on the issues “Bungee Jump” and differential acceleration of the bar rotational motion. Such practices can be reproduced in a laboratory of experimental Physics. We believe that the use of the device in question shows to be promise for use in numerous other practices in Physics teaching, it is aimed at teaching important innovation in the laboratory, the possibility of using the feature of Real-Time Physics with a class demonstration and in the point of view of involving students in interdisciplinary projects.