The Go Direct^® Centripetal Force System (GDX-CFA) requires the use of the Go Direct^® Force and Acceleration Sensor (GDX-FOR) for sensor data collection. There are three primary channels that will be of use when using this sensor with the Go Direct Centripetal Force Apparatus (CFA):

Z-axis gyro to measure angular velocity
X-axis acceleration to measure centripetal acceleration
Force to measure (well…) force

For all experiments with the CFA angular velocity will be of interest.

When investigating circular motion and the relationship between angular velocity, radius, and centripetal acceleration activate the X-axis acceleration and the Z-axis gyro. Be sure to align the sensor so the positive acceleration is oriented towards the center of rotation.

When investigating forces necessary to maintain an object in a circular path, activate the force and Z-axis gyro.

When investigating angular acceleration for different mass configurations (moments of rotational inertia) it is only necessary to activate Z-axis gyro.

Go Direct Centripetal Force Apparatus, Troubleshooting and FAQs