Running Lab
Purpose: How can the average speed of a person be calculated?
What happens to the average speed of a person when calculated over a longer distance?
Materials: Meter stick, open space, a person, stop watch
Procedure:
Directions:
1. Create a data table for each person in your lab group.
2. Measure out 10 meters with the meter stick. Create a starting and finish line.
3. Have a person start/stop the timer as the person starts/finishes
4. Have each person take three walks or runs. Figure out their average time.
5. Measure out 30 meters with the meter stick. Create a starting and finish line.
6. After the speeds have been figured, have an average speed for the three trials.
Data:
Name Method of Motion Distance Average Time Average Speed Average Speed
(sec) (m/sec) (mph)
10m
10m
10m
10m
Name Method of Motion Distance Average Time Average Speed Average Speed
(sec) (m/sec) (mph)
30m
30m
30m
30m
Convert your average speeds from meters per second into miles per hour.
Multiply your average speed by 60, then 60 again. This will convert it from seconds to hours
Divide your answer by 1000. This will convert from meters to kilometers
Multiply your answer by .62 This will convert from kilometers to miles
Questions:
1. State at least two variables that you were keeping constant throughout the experiment?
2. What is the difference between constant speed and variable speed?
3. During this activity, did you have a constant or variable speed? How can you tell?
4. Generate a line graph using excel. Have the graph show the person and average speed in MPH
Conclusion Statements:
1.
2.