P5 - Reaction Times Flashcards
Why is everyones reaction time different?
As it can be affected by multiple things such as tiredness,drugs,alcohol as well as distrwctions
State one computer based way to measure reaction time
One way of measuring reaction times is to use a computer-based test ( eg Clicking a mouse when the screen changes colour)
State one non computer based way to measure reaction time
The ruler drop test
State the steps needed to complete the ruler drop test
1) Sit with your arm resting on the edge of a table (this should stop you moving your arm up or down during the test). Get someone else to hold a ruler so it hangs between your thumb and forefinger, lined up with zero. You may need a third person to be at eye level with the ruler to check it’s lined up.
2) Without giving any warning, the person holding the ruler should drop it. Close your thumb and finger to try to catch the ruler as quickly as possible.
3) The measurement on the ruler at the point where it is caught is how far the ruler dropped in the time it takes you to react.
4) The longer the distance, the longer the reaction time.
5) You can calculate how long the ruler falls for (the reaction time)because acceleration due to gravity is constant (roughly 9.8 m/s°).
6) Repeat at least 3 times to calculate an average
How could you make sure the ruler drop test is fair?
- Same ruler
- Same person dropping it
- Same height
How could you change the ruler drop reaction time test?
You could add distractions to see what factor affects the person the most such as music
