Investigating the time-distance relationship: an innovative approach to Galileo’s inclined plane experiment using Arduino

Abstract In this paper, we present an innovative approach to hands-on scientific inquiry, for classroom use, by integrating modern tools such as reflective photointerrupter sensors and sound emitters into an experimental setup. Inspired by Galileo’s pioneering work, our proposed experiments investigate the relationship between sound intervals and the motion of an object along an inclined U-shaped profile. Using different sensor arrangements, we explore the quadratic relationship between distance and time for spheres rolling on the inclined plane. Additionally, we discuss a simplified theoretical framework facilitating comparison between theoretical and experimental acceleration values. Our findings demonstrated a close correspondence between experimental distance-time data and theoretical predictions, validating the effectiveness of our approach.