Reconstructing Galileo’s Inclined Plane Experiments: Problems of Time Measurements

Giuseppe Schirripa Spagnolo, Giorgia Satta, Federico Fina, Ilaria De Angelis, Fabio Leccese

Abstract

In this paper, we describe the recreate Galileo’s experimental setup to explore the dynamics of motion along an inclined plane. We not only replicate the physical measurements of distance and velocity but also emphasize the critical role of accurate time measurement, as used by Galileo to decipher the laws governing natural motion. In addition to reproducing the experiment using instruments available in Galileo’s time, this article presents a comparative analysis of the motion using modern tools: a video analysis application (Tracker) and an audio analysis application (Audacity).

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IMEKO-Metroarchaeo-2025-113.pdf

DOI

10.21014/tc26-2025.113

IMEKO TC

TC26 - Metrology for Cultural Heritage

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