EXPERIMENT: DETERMINING REACTION TIME The reaction time can be determined by using the formula:
where d is the distance the meter stick falls before being caught and g is the acceleration due to gravity. The formula can be rearranged to solve for time, t.
A ruler will be dropped between a person’s fingers. [A person drops a meter stick between another person’s finger and they catch it.]

The distance the ruler falls before the person catches the ruler will help determine their reaction time.

Record the distance the ruler falls. Then use the distance to determine the reaction time.

Trial one. [The ruler is caught at 48 centimeters]

Trial two. [The ruler is caught at 41 centimeters]

Trial three. [The ruler is caught at 29 centimeters]

Trial four. [Trial four] [The ruler is caught at 41 centimeters]

Trial five. [Trial five] [The ruler is caught at 40 centimeters]

Trial six. [Trial six] [The ruler is caught at 42 centimeters]