9.3.3: Using a Trundle Wheel to Measure Distances
Lesson
Let's use our trundle wheels.
Exercise \(\PageIndex{1}\): Measuring Distances with the Trundle Wheel
Earlier you made trundle wheels so that you can measure long distances.
If you do not have a trundle wheel, you can use an applet to simulate measuring. Your teacher will tell you a path whose distance you will measure.
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Measure the path with your trundle wheel three times and calculate the distance. Record your results in the table.
diameter number of rotations computation distance trial 1 trial 2 trial 3 Table \(\PageIndex{1}\) - Decide what distance you will report to the class. Be prepared to explain your reasoning.
- Compare this distance with the distance you measured the other day for this same path.
- Compare your results with the results of two other groups. Express the differences between the measurements in terms of percentages.
To use this applet:
- Choose a diameter for the wheel, and enter a number 1 -- 5 for the path you will measure.
- Watch carefully to keep track of the number of rotations that the wheel makes before it stops.
- Try three different diameters for the same path, and compare your results.
- Answer the questions.