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	Forensics Case 4 Flipping Coins: Density as a characteristic property

Activity Overview

In this activity, students identify counterfeit coins based on the characteristic property of density. They model data using a linear equation, interpret the slope and intercept values from a linear model, and identify a characteristic property of a substance.

Before the Activity

Use TI Connect™ to download Vernier EasyData™ application

Connect the Dual-Range Force Sensor to Vernier EasyLink™ interface

Plug EasyLink into the USB port of the calculator

Set up the calculator and the Force sensor for data collection

See the attached PDF file for detailed instructions for this activity

Print pages 34 - 38 from the attached PDF file for the class

Print sample data and student work pages

Activity Downloads:

(file types)

During the Activity

Distribute the pages to the class.

Follow the Activity procedures:

Hang the empty cup from the hook on the force sensor

Place 5 pre-1982 pennies in the cup and record the weight

Add 5 more coins at a time and note down the weight-number data pairs

Observe the linear graph of the number of pennies versus the weight

Determine the equation that governs the relation between the weight and number of pennies

Determine the slope of the line

Understand that the slope is the measure of density of the coins

Repeat the steps for the other sets of pennies

Compare the densities of the three sets of coins

Understand the composition of the sets of coins and how the composition relates to density

Use the method to "expose" a counterfeiter by proving that his "old" coins have a "new" density

After the Activity

Students analyze the results and answer the Case analysis questions on the Evidence Record sheet.

Review student results:

As a class, discuss questions that appeared to be more challenging

Re-teach concepts as necessary

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Subject Area:
Math : Algebra I : Linear Equations and Functions
Science : Physics : Work, Energy and Momentum
Science : Chemistry : Energy and Matter
Science : Forensics : Data Analysis

Author:
Texas Instruments