A spreadsheet model
Introducing a spreadsheet model for simulating experimental data.
We can also use a spreadsheet to simulate experimental data.
Download the provided spreadsheet, ‘Simulation 1’. This has been set up to provide a simulation of the experiment that you have just carried out using a spinner.
Make sure that you can use the spreadsheet to generate a set of simulated experimental data.
The spreadsheet is provided in Microsoft Excel format, but can also be opened in other compatible packages (including Apple’s Numbers spreadsheet).
- To generate a new set of data, force the spreadsheet to recalculate by pressing the function key F9.
- This will not work in Apple Numbers. The easiest way to recalculate a Numbers spreadsheet is to format an empty cell as a check box. Checking or unchecking the checkbox will recalculate the sheet.
Can you see how the model works? Would you be able to adapt it for other activities?
