Studying the rotational dynamics of a meter stick using the Arduino board and 3D printed parts

Abstract

We present a low-cost experimental apparatus designed for studying the rotational dynamics of a meter stick. This apparatus uses everyday laboratory supplies, 3D printed parts, and an Arduino board for data acquisition. It consists of a common bearing fixed to a vertical axle, connected to the meter stick through a 3D printed spindle adapter. A thread attached to a hanging weight and winded around the spindle applies a constant external torque to the stick. The moment of inertia of the apparatus may be changed by incorporating weights into the apparatus through 3D printed adapters. An Arduino board records the time interval between consecutive half turns of the stick, allowing the calculation of the angular displacement over time. The data collected from experiments is compared with theoretical models. Among others, the effect of the applied torque, air resistance and moment of inertia of the stick is studied. This experimental apparatus is particularly suitable for undergraduate students enrolled in a classical mechanics course, offering them a practical, hand-on experience while remaining cost-effective.