The Centripetal Force lab uses a centripetal force apparatus to investigate the relationships between the centripetal force on an object and the mass, velocity, and radius of revolution of the object. It is part of High School Virtual Physics Lab, a set of 24 iPad apps for use in the classroom. To see how they work, try the FREE HSVPL Newton’s 2nd Law lab.

In addition to a 3D simulation that produces realistic data, each lab includes introductory videos, background theory, experimental procedure, analysis and reporting tools, pre- and post-lab quizzes, and teacher support materials.

These labs can serve as replacements for hands-on labs, especially when equipment is not available, or as supplements to hands-on labs. They are also a suitable option for students in distance learning situations. Formative and summative evaluations showed no significant difference in learning between students using the virtual labs and those using hands-on labs. Preliminary results suggest increased learning by students using the virtual labs as supplements to hands-on.

HSVPL was developed by Polyhedron Learning Media, Inc. and is distributed in conjunction with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Funding for this project was provided under contract number ED-IES-11-C-0029 by the Institute of Education Sciences in the U.S. Department of Education through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program.