Measuring velocity and acceleration of a moving object in linear motion using proximity sensor of smartphone

Abstract

This paper describes an alternative method for measuring the time or time interval of a moving object in linear motion using a smartphone’s proximity sensor. Two smartphones are stationary, placed on an inclined plane, and measure the time or time interval of a moving object (with attached a cardboard) passing through the sensor using the Phyphox app. The obtained data are used to calculate both velocity and acceleration for the moving object. This experiment is easy to set up with readily available objects and prevents damage to the smartphones.