Leveraging smartphone barometric sensors for authentic physics learning: an in-flight experiment

İngilizce (OpenAlex)

Abstract Smartphone sensors are progressively revolutionizing physics education by offering engaging, cost-effective, and real-world experimental methodologies. This study presents an innovative pedagogical approach utilizing smartphone-integrated barometric sensors to measure atmospheric pressure variations during a commercial flight. The authors conducted the experiment by recording cabin pressure data using smartphones throughout the critical flight phases—takeoff, cruising altitude, and landing. Applying the barometric formula, these measurements were subsequently converted into comprehensive altitude profiles, effectively linking abstract theoretical principles such as hydrostatic equilibrium and the ideal gas law to practical, experiential learning scenarios. The collected data distinctly captured altitude variations that corresponded accurately with aircraft cabin pressurization protocols, providing compelling empirical evidence of atmospheric physics principles in a practical context. Existing literature emphasizes the substantial pedagogical benefits of integrating familiar personal devices into educational settings, highlighting significant improvements in student engagement, motivation, and conceptual understanding. By framing physics concepts within the relatable experience of air travel, this approach not only fosters intrinsic student curiosity but also promotes critical thinking and active participation in scientific inquiry. The findings illustrate that employing smartphone technology as an educational tool can substantially enhance the depth and practicality of physics learning. Moreover, this method provides educators with a replicable and accessible model to bridge theoretical knowledge with tangible, everyday applications, thus enriching students’ learning experiences and fostering deeper scientific literacy.