Mechanics > Math and Measurement DCS# 1A20.60

REACTION TIMER



APPARATUS
Pasco photogate timer 202-14-C2
reaction timer accessory
202-14-C1

DESCRIPTION
The reaction timer consists of two switches and a buzzer connected to the photogate timer.  When the first switch is pressed, the buzzer sounds and the timer starts.  The timer stops when the second switch is thrown.  Pairs of students can measure their reaction times with this.

NOTES

Use the photogate timer in gate mode.

Start switch must remain depressed until after timer stops.
A low-tech alternative:  drop a meter stick through the subject's hands and calculate reaction time from the length that passes through his or her fingers before the meterstick is caught.