Computer Modelling & Data Logger (OCR AS Physics) : Revision Note

Computer Modelling & Data Logger

• Computing modelling and using a data logger are essential in all scientific experiments for obtaining and analysing reliable results

Data Loggers

• Data loggers are a tool that allows for the quick and efficient gathering of data

  • The information contained within a data logger can be inputted into a computer and formatted into a table

  • After this is done the computer is able to calculate the average and plot graphs using the data and calculate gradients which quicker and more accurately than humans

• They are electronic devices that automatically monitor and record environmental parameters over time such as temperature, pressure, voltage or current

  • It contains multiple sensors to receive the information and a computer chip to store it

A data logger measuring and displaying temperature using a probe

• The benefits of using data loggers and ICT (information and communication technology) include:

  • Readings are taken with higher degrees of accuracy

  • Reduction of human error (eg. human reaction times, subjectiveness)

  • Readings can be taken over a long period of time eg. hourly readings of temperature over many days

  • Readings can be taken in a very short period of time, which would be too quick for humans to see a difference

  • Reduction in safety risks with extreme conditions such as measuring the temperature of boiling water

Computer Modelling

• Computer modelling is commonly done in conjunction with devices such as a data logger

  • Modelling is about processing the data collected from a physics experiment into software or a spreadsheet

• Graphs and charts can be generated from a table of values

  • These can then be exported to a scientific report

• One of the benefits of these computer programs is that time can be sped up to predict the future outcome of an experiment

Computer modelling uses a computer and sensors to analyse and display data