| Course element | Work | Learning activity |
|
Interpretation Testing with data |
Comparison of
model results with data Presentation of results and discussion |
Presentation Group discussion |
The calculation scheme for the acceleration can be applied on a computer. Special software is available for this. In these modelling environments, a distinction is made between ‘text-based’ and ‘graphical’ environments. In the modelling environment Coach1, a model can be constructed both in text mode and in graphical mode. Modellus2 only accepts mathematical formulas.
The overview of dynamic models 4.1 Force and motion contains the computer model of a motion with constant acceleration, both in text mode and in graphical mode.
Students can use this computer model to compute results and test them against the expectations about the behaviour of the model. In the given example, the outcome of the computer model is a graph for the position of the falling object as a function of time. This graph can be compared with the measured data of the experiment of free fall, provided suitable initial values are selected.