PHYSICS VISUAL 218 LAB MEMO TO: James Maxin FROM: Michael Murphy DATE: February 12, 2008 SUBJECT: Lab 1: Experiment 1 The purpose of this experiment was to study the potential errors that could occur in our estimation of displacement when we arranged our camera poorly for capturing images where exact measurements are crucial. We affixed the camera in three different locations and captured a still shot from each one to measure the differences of displacement of marks we placed on the track. Results showed that human error could lead to systematic error due to the computer software not able to recognize the angle and perception of the camera relative to the track. In Arrangement one we fixed the camera directly overhead the track above the center of it. This view provided equidistant marks as shown by logger pro, where each marking was clearly the same distance by centimeter 20 intervals. The second arrangement had the camera fixed directly overhead but fixed directly above the end of the track, not the center. This proved that poor camera placement could lead to many problems as the angle made the dots not only harder to see but vary in distance as they went farther from the camera. The markings were definitely not equidistant. The third arrangement had the camera fixed overhead and to the side of the track but in line with the center. This view provided equidistant markings and a good view of the track. This experiment is a very helpful learning tool that provides insight into being careful and considerate of camera placement for capturing experiments. From the experiment I learned that the best views for equidistant markings are those with the camera located in line with the center of the track and not on the ends.