1. Introduction

1.1 What is FizziQ?

FizziQ transforms your smartphone or tablet into a true portable scientific laboratory. The app uses the many built-in sensors in your device to conduct physics, chemistry, and life and earth science experiments.

1.2 Who is FizziQ for?

  • Students: from middle school to high school, to discover science interactively
  • Teachers: to prepare and lead practical work sessions
  • Curious minds: to explore the world around us with a scientific perspective

1.3 App Philosophy

FizziQ is inspired by the scientific method:

🔬

Observe

Use sensors to measure phenomena

Question

Formulate hypotheses

🧪

Experiment

Record data

📊

Analyze

Interpret results

📤

Communicate

Share discoveries

1.4 Available Languages

FizziQ is available in 20 languages: French, English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, Italian, Dutch, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, Finnish, Hungarian, Estonian, Romanian, Ukrainian, Russian, Turkish, Arabic, and Malagasy.

1.5 Safety Precautions

Using FizziQ to conduct scientific experiments requires following certain essential precautions.

Protect your device

  • Use an appropriate protective case
  • Do not expose the device to liquids or extreme temperatures
  • Securely attach the device during motion experiments
  • Do not subject the device to violent impacts

Protect others

  • Do not throw objects toward other people
  • Warn people around you before conducting a motion experiment
  • Clear the workspace of obstacles

Protect yourself

  • Do not take measurements in dangerous locations (roadside, heights, etc.)
  • Do not conduct experiments that could injure you
  • Stay aware of your surroundings during measurements
Liability disclaimer: The creators of the FizziQ app (Trapeze.digital) cannot be held responsible for any material or bodily damage that may result from using the app.

1.6 Recommendations for Using FizziQ in Class

1. Be confident

The FizziQ app was designed for students, and its interface is similar to other digital tools they use daily.

2. Put devices in airplane mode

FizziQ does not need Internet access to work. In airplane mode, students will not be distracted by notifications and messages.

3. Encourage group work

Group work allows students less familiar with digital tools to learn the app while benefiting from others' discoveries.

4. Let students familiarize themselves with the tool

During the first session, plan 10 to 15 minutes for students to familiarize themselves with the different features.

5. Choose an appropriate protocol

For your first session, choose a protocol that requires only one measuring instrument. You will find many examples at www.fizziq.org/protocoles.

6. Request a report

FizziQ allows students to easily create synthetic documents including graphs, text, photos, and tables.

2. Getting Started

2.1 Installation

FizziQ is available for free on:

  • iOS: App Store (iPhone and iPad)
  • Android: Google Play Store
  • Web: FizziQ Web (browser version)

2.2 First Launch

On first launch, FizziQ:

  1. Automatically detects available sensors on your device
  2. Requests necessary permissions (microphone, camera, location)
  3. Displays the home screen
Note: Not all devices have the same sensors. FizziQ adapts its interface based on detected sensors.

2.3 Required Permissions

PermissionUse
MicrophoneSound level meter, frequency analyzer, amplitude (oscilloscope)
CameraColorimeter, photos, kinematic analysis
LocationGPS (latitude, longitude, altitude, speed)
StorageSaving notebooks and export
BluetoothConnection to FizziQ Connect sensors

2.4 Home Screen Structure

The home screen displays five tabs at the bottom of the screen:

Activities
Activities
Notebook
Notebook
Measurements
Measurements
Tools
Tools
Settings
Settings
TabDescription
ActivitiesExperimental protocols and educational resources
NotebookView and manage your observations
MeasurementsAccess to sensors and measurement tools
ToolsSynthesizer, library, calculator, etc.
SettingsSettings and configuration

3. The Main Interface

3.1 The Measurements Tab

This is the heart of FizziQ. This screen allows you to:

  • Select one or two measuring instruments
  • Visualize data in real time
  • Record observations
Instruments menu
Measuring instruments menu

Selecting an instrument

  1. At the top of the screen, you see the name of the active instrument
  2. Tap on this name: the instruments menu opens
  3. The menu displays instrument categories
  4. Tap on a category to expand it
  5. Tap on the desired instrument to select it
  6. The menu closes and the display updates
  7. The interface color changes according to the instrument

3.2 The Notebook Tab

The experiment notebook contains all your observations, displayed as observation cards. Each card can contain:

  • Data (graphs recorded by sensors)
  • Data tables
  • Photos and images
  • Notes and text comments

Navigating the notebook

  • Scroll: swipe vertically to browse cards
  • Select: tap on a card to see it in detail
  • Reorganize: long press then drag
  • Delete: swipe left or use the menu

3.3 The Tools Tab

Tools Menu
Scientific tools menu

Access to complementary tools:

  • Sound synthesizer
  • Color synthesis
  • Sound library
  • Scientific calculator
  • Automatic stopwatches
  • Triggers
  • AskFizziQ (AI assistant)

3.4 The Activities Tab

Activities Menu
Activities tab
  • Download educational activities
  • Read configuration QR codes
  • Access the resource database

3.5 The Settings Tab

Settings Menu
Settings menu

The Settings tab allows you to customize the app behavior:

  • Data: sampling frequency, signal filtering, quadratic adjustment
  • Settings: screen orientation, sensor organization (by instrument or by theme), language
  • Camera: LED for colorimetry, photo saving, camera selection
  • Calibration: magnetometer and sound level meter adjustment
  • System status: available sensors, app version, device information

4. Measuring Instruments

FizziQ offers more than 50 measuring instruments. The menu can be organized by instrument or by theme.

4.1 Instrument Menu Organization

Default organization: by measuring instrument

CategoryDescription
External sensorsFizziQ Connect Bluetooth sensors
AccelerometerAcceleration measurements (linear, with g, absolute)
Kinematic analysisVideo and chronophotography
MicrophoneSound level meter, frequency, amplitude, spectrograph
Light meterLight intensity measurement
ColorimeterColor analysis (RGB, HSL, name)
GPSPosition, altitude, speed
CompassDirection relative to magnetic north
InclinometerTilt angles
TheodoliteHorizontal and vertical bearings
MagnetometerMagnetic field
GyroscopeRotation speed
BarometerAtmospheric pressure
PedometerStep counter

Alternative organization: by theme

In Settings > Organize by theme, you can enable thematic organization:

ThemeIncluded instruments
Kinematic analysisVideo, chronophotography
SoundSound level meter, frequency, amplitude, spectrograph
MotionAccelerometer, gyroscope, pedometer
LightLight meter, colorimeter
PositionGPS (latitude, longitude, altitude, speed)
OrientationCompass, inclinometer, theodolite
MagnetismMagnetometer
EnvironmentBarometer

4.2 Microphone

The smartphone microphone allows several types of acoustic measurements.

Sound Level Meter

  • Measurement: Sound level in decibels (dB)
  • Range: 0 to 110 dB
  • Use: Measure the sound volume of an environment
  • Examples: Noise pollution, acoustic insulation, sound comparison

Dominant Frequency

  • Measurement: Main sound frequency in Hertz (Hz)
  • Range: 50 to 10,000 Hz
  • Use: Identify the note played by an instrument
  • Examples: Tune an instrument, study the human voice

Amplitude (oscilloscope view)

  • Display: Real-time audio signal (waveform)
  • Range: 0 to 10,000 ms or 0 to 100 ms (switchable)
  • Use: Visualize the sound waveform
  • Examples: Compare pure and complex sounds, observe beats

Spectrograph

  • Display: Frequency spectrum of sound (FFT)
  • Range: 0 to 5,000 Hz
  • Use: Analyze harmonic composition
  • Examples: Instrument timbre, voice analysis

Noise Level

  • Measurement: Average ambient sound level (dB)
  • Range: 0 to 110 dB
  • Use: Measure average ambient noise in an environment

4.3 Accelerometer

The accelerometer measures accelerations experienced by the phone.

Linear Accelerometer X, Y, Z

  • Measurement: Acceleration without gravity (m/s2)
  • Axes: X (front-back), Y (left-right), Z (up-down)
  • Examples: Free fall, oscillations, impacts

Accelerometer with gravity

  • Measurement: Total acceleration including g (m/s2)
  • At rest value: approx. 9.81 m/s2 (vertically)

Absolute Acceleration X, Y, Z

  • Measurement: Acceleration in the Earth reference frame (m/s2)
  • Difference: Independent of phone orientation

4.4 Gyroscope

  • Measurement: Rotation speed (deg/s or rad/s)
  • Axes: X (roll), Y (pitch), Z (yaw)
  • Examples: Spinning top rotation, pendulum motion

4.5 Pedometer

  • Measurement: Cumulative step count
  • Examples: Stride study, distance calculation

4.6 Compass

  • Measurement: Direction relative to magnetic north (deg)
  • Range: 0 to 360 degrees
  • Note: Hold the phone horizontally for accurate measurement

4.7 Inclinometer

Front-back inclinometer (pitch)

  • Measurement: Longitudinal tilt angle (deg)
  • Range: -90 to +90 degrees

Lateral inclinometer (roll)

  • Measurement: Transverse tilt angle (deg)
  • Range: -90 to +90 degrees

4.8 Theodolite

Horizontal bearing (Azimuth)

  • Measurement: Direction of an object relative to north (deg)
  • Range: 0 to 360 degrees

Vertical bearing (Elevation)

  • Measurement: Angle above or below the horizon (deg)
  • Range: -90 deg (nadir) to +90 deg (zenith)

4.9 GPS

MeasurementDescription
LatitudeNorth-south position (-90 to +90 degrees)
LongitudeEast-west position (-180 to +180 degrees)
AltitudeHeight above sea level (m)
GPS SpeedTravel speed (m/s or km/h)
GPS AccuracyPosition uncertainty (m)

4.10 Magnetometer

  • Magnetometer (magnitude): Total magnetic field intensity (uT)
  • Earth value: approx. 25 to 65 uT depending on location
  • Magnetometer X, Y, Z: Magnetic field components
  • Magnetic angle: Horizontal magnetic field direction

4.11 Light Meter

  • Measurement: Illuminance in lux
  • Range: 0 to 100,000+ lux
SituationTypical illuminance
Moonless night0.001 lux
Full moon0.25 lux
Indoor lighting300-500 lux
Cloudy day10,000 lux
Full sunlight100,000 lux

4.12 Colorimeter

The colorimeter uses the camera to analyze colors.

MeasurementDescription
Color (name)Name of detected color
Hue (H)Position on color wheel (0 to 360 degrees)
Saturation (S)Color purity (0% to 100%)
Lightness (L)Color brightness (0% to 100%)
R, G, B IntensityRed, green, blue components (0-255)
AbsorbanceOptical absorbance (spectrophotometry)

4.13 Barometer

  • Measurement: Pressure in hectopascals (hPa) or millibars
  • Standard value: 1013.25 hPa at sea level
  • Variation: approx. -12 hPa per 100 m altitude
  • Note: Available only on certain devices

4.14 Kinematic Analysis

Video kinematics

  • Function: Analyze motion in a video
  • Measurements: Position (x, y), velocity, acceleration

Chronophotography

  • Function: Analyze motion in a photo
  • Measurements: Position (x, y), Velocity (Vx, Vy, V), Acceleration (Ax, Ay, A), Rotation (alpha), Energy (Ek, Ep, Em)
Interface colors: The color changes according to the instrument: blue (accelerometer), green (sound), yellow (light), pink (GPS), red (magnetometer), orange (gyroscope).

5. Measurement Display - First Steps

5.1 Accessing the Measurement Screen

Instruments menu
Measuring instruments menu

From the home screen

  1. Look at the bottom bar of the screen
  2. Tap on the Measurements tab
  3. The instruments menu is displayed

Selecting an instrument

  1. Tap on a category (e.g., Accelerometer)
  2. The category expands and displays available instruments
  3. Tap on the desired instrument (e.g., Acceleration X)
  4. The measurement screen is displayed

5.2 The Measurement Screen

Measurement screen
Main measurement screen

Screen elements

1. Top bar

  • Back arrow : return to instruments menu
  • Instrument name: indicates the active instrument

2. Circular dial (main display)

  • Numerical value: real-time measurement
  • Unit: unit of measurement
  • The value updates continuously

3. Real-time graph

  • Displays the measurement evolution over time
  • The graph scrolls from right to left

4. Action buttons (at the bottom)

  • Capture button: capture an instant measurement
  • REC button: start continuous recording

5.3 Practical Example: Measuring Acceleration

Step 1: Select the accelerometer

  1. Tap on the Measurements tab
  2. Tap on Accelerometer
  3. Tap on Acceleration X

Step 2: Observe the measurement screen

  • The dial displays a value close to 0 m/s2 if the phone is stationary
  • The graph shows a flat line

Step 3: Take a measurement

  • Gently shake the phone left and right
  • Observe the dial: the value changes
  • Observe the graph: a wavy curve appears

5.4 Changing Instruments

From the measurement screen, several methods:

  • Method 1: Back arrow at top left
  • Method 2: Tap on the circular dial
  • Method 3: Tap on the graph

6. Recording Measurements

6.1 Recording Types

ModeDescriptionResult
ContinuousRecords data as a function of timeGraph in notebook
InstantCaptures a single value"Spot" card with value
Dual sensorRecords two quantities simultaneouslyX-Y graph

6.2 Continuous Recording

Recording in progress
Recording in progress

Recording procedure

  1. Check that the desired instrument is displayed
  2. Locate the red "REC" button at the bottom of the screen
  3. Tap on "REC" to start recording
  4. The graph turns red, a clock is displayed
  5. Perform your experiment during recording
  6. Tap on "STOP" to stop
  7. The observation is automatically added to the notebook

6.3 Instant Measurement (spot capture)

  1. Check that the desired instrument is displayed
  2. Observe the displayed value in the dial
  3. Wait for the value to stabilize
  4. Tap on the capture button
  5. An instant observation card is added to the notebook
Multiple measurements: If multiple measurements of the same instrument are taken, a table is automatically created containing these measurements organized with the time they were taken and the measured value.

6.4 Dual Sensor Mode (Duo)

Duo mode allows you to display and record two instruments simultaneously.

Duo Mode
Screen with two simultaneous measurements

Activating Duo mode

  1. Tap on the Tools tab
  2. Tap on Top screen
  3. Return to the measurement screen: two dials are displayed
  4. Tap on the second dial to choose the second instrument

Usage examples

  • Trajectory: Acceleration X vs Acceleration Y
  • Kinematics: Position vs Time
  • Electricity: Voltage vs Current (with external sensors)

6.5 Automatic Stopwatches and Triggers

These tools are accessible from the Tools tab.

  • Stopwatches: measure time between two events
  • Triggers: trigger an action when a condition is met

6.6 Recording Settings

Sampling frequency

The standard sampling frequency corresponds to the maximum frequency for the selected sensor. This frequency can be configured in Settings > Data.

SensorMaximum frequency
Microphone (oscilloscope)Up to 40,000 Hz
Accelerometer50-100 Hz
Gyroscope50-100 Hz
Colorimeter20-40 Hz
GPS1 Hz
Barometer1 Hz

Maximum recording duration

FizziQ can record up to 5000 data points per recording.
  • At 100 Hz: 5000 / 100 = 50 seconds
  • At 10 Hz: 5000 / 10 = 500 seconds (approx. 8 minutes)
  • At 1 Hz: 5000 / 1 = 5000 seconds (approx. 83 minutes)

7. The Experiment Notebook

7.1 Notebook Concept

The experiment notebook works like a digital scientific logbook. It contains all your observations in the form of observation cards.

Observation card
Observation card with graph

Each card can contain:

  • Data: graphs recorded by sensors
  • Tables: organized numerical data
  • Photos: images taken during the experiment
  • Text: notes, comments, hypotheses, conclusions

7.2 Observation Card Types

TypeDescription
Graph (single)One quantity as a function of time
Graph (double)Two quantities, overlay or X-Y mode
Instant (spot)Single captured value
TextFree text area, LaTeX formulas
PhotoImage with rotation option
TableData with automatic formulas
SpreadsheetFull integrated mini spreadsheet

7.3 Card Management

Renaming a card

It is very important to name the different cards explicitly. This allows students to easily find their way in their experiment notebook and properly document their experimentation session.

How to rename a card
  1. Open the card in full screen
  2. Tap on the card title
  3. Type the new name
  4. Confirm

Reorganizing cards

  1. Tap on the reorganize icon at the top
  2. Long press on a card then drag it
  3. Release to drop

Deleting a card

  • Method 1: Swipe left, then Delete button
  • Method 2: Menu, then Delete
WARNING: When a card is deleted, it is permanently lost. There is no recycle bin.

7.4 Adding Observation Cards

Add card
Card addition menu to notebook

There are several ways to add observation cards to your notebook:

From the measurement screen

Return to the Measurements tab and take new measurements. These will be automatically added to the notebook.

From the floating + button

Tap on the floating + button (square) located at the bottom right of the notebook window. This button allows you to add:

OptionDescription
TextAdd a text card to note your observations
TableCreate a data table
CameraTake a photo and add it to the notebook
GalleryAdd an image from your photo gallery
ObservationImport a measurement via QR code from another device
InstrumentReturn to measurement screen to take a new measurement

7.5 Exporting and Sharing Observation Data

Export observation
Observation card export

To export observation data, open the card in full screen then tap on the share icon.

OptionDescription
QR CodeInstant sharing between smartphones, works without Internet
CSVFor Excel, LibreOffice, Google Sheets
PythonExport for Python analysis
ImagePNG capture for inserting in Word
Add to notebookCopy to another notebook
QR Code sharing: Ideal in class! A student displays the QR code of their observation, others scan it to retrieve the data. Works even in airplane mode!

7.6 Exporting and Sharing the Notebook

Notebook export
Notebook export menu

To export the entire notebook, tap on the share icon located at the top right, in the banner displaying the notebook name.

Export options

FormatDescription
PDFFormatted document with customizable layout
CSVAll data in spreadsheet format
PythonExport for Python analysis
Share notebookShare complete .fizziq file

Notebook PDF Export

PDF Options
PDF export options
Generated PDF
PDF result

When exporting to PDF, FizziQ asks you:

  • Notebook name: title that will appear on the document
  • Author: document author name
  • Number of columns: between 1 and 3 columns per page
Scientific layout: Choosing the number of columns (2 or 3) allows you to structure your document like a professional scientific article.

Once the PDF is generated, you can share it through all available means on your smartphone: email, WhatsApp, Messages, or save it to the cloud (Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox...).

7.7 Notebook Management

  • Rename: Tap on the notebook name at the top
  • Access all notebooks: Folder icon at the top left
  • Create a new notebook: + icon in the list
  • Automatic save: Notebooks are saved automatically

8. Sensor Data

Sensor data contains a lot of information. It is presented as graphs that allow for quick and efficient visual analysis.

Data can also be exported in CSV or Python format for in-depth analysis in a spreadsheet or programming environment.

Graph display makes it easy to visualize large amounts of data and quickly identify trends and anomalies.

8.1 Graph Analysis

Display mode

A button allows you to select the graph display mode:

  • Line: classic curve display
  • Statistics: displays occurrences for different measured values

Line mode commands

ButtonFunction
+ / -Zoom in / out on vertical scale
Up / Down arrowsRecenter graph vertically
Double slider (on right)Zoom on part of graph on time axis (x-axis)
Tip: The + button that adds data to the experiment notebook can be moved if it obstructs graph reading.

9. Tables

9.1 Concept

FizziQ uses a scientific spreadsheet adapted to experimentation needs. Main difference from Excel: formulas use column names (t, x, y...) instead of cell references (A1, B2...).

9.2 Creating a Table

  1. Notebook tab
  2. Tap on +
  3. Select Table
  4. A table with 3 default columns is created

Renaming a column

Tap on the column name. To add a unit: t(s) - the identifier is "t".

Column header menu

OptionDescription
Sequential indicesFill with 1, 2, 3, 4...
Set decimalsNumber of displayed decimals
Copy to columnCopy a value to entire column
DeleteDelete the column

9.3 Formulas and Functions

Concept

  • Formulas start with =
  • Reference a column by its name (e.g., B, t, x...)
  • The formula uses the value from the same row

Example

To calculate the sine of column B: =SIN(B)

Neighbor functions

FunctionDescription
PREC(col) or PREV(col)Value from previous row
SUIV(col) or NEXT(col)Value from next row

Mathematical operators

OperatorMeaning
+Addition
-Subtraction
*Multiplication
/Division
^Power

Mathematical functions

SIN, COS, TAN, ASIN, ACOS, ATAN, SQRT, ABS, LN, LOG, EXP

Statistical functions

  • SOMME(col) or SUM(col)
  • MOYENNE(col) or AVERAGE(col)
  • ECARTYPE(col) or STDEV(col)

Differentiation functions

  • DIFF(y, x): First derivative dy/dx (velocity)
  • DIFF2(y, x): Second derivative d2y/dx2 (acceleration)
Example: To calculate velocity: =DIFF(x, t). For acceleration: =DIFF2(x, t)

9.4 Graph Visualization

  1. Open the table in full screen
  2. Tap on the Graph button
  3. Choose the column for the X axis
  4. Choose the column for the Y axis
  5. The graph is displayed

Interpolation options

  • Linear: regression line (y = ax + b)
  • Logarithmic
  • Sinusoidal

10. Text and Photos

This section describes how to add observation cards containing text or photos to your experiment notebook.

10.1 Adding a Text Card

Creating a text card

  1. Tap on the + button (floating at bottom right)
  2. Tap on Text
  3. A text card is created
  4. Tap in the card to write your comment
  5. Confirm by tapping Confirm

Writing mathematical formulas

In a text card, you can write mathematical formulas using LaTeX format.

How to create a formula
  1. Type two dollar signs: $$
  2. Write your formula in LaTeX
  3. Close the formula with $$
  4. Tap on Confirm
  5. The formula displays in mathematical notation
Example

To write a fraction:

$$F = \frac{2}{3} \times X$$

Will display as a real mathematical formula with the fraction correctly formatted.

Available symbols

Many mathematical symbols are automatically recognized:

  • Functions: \log, \sin, \cos, \tan, \sqrt...
  • Greek letters: \alpha, \beta, \gamma, \epsilon, \pi...
  • Fractions: \frac{numerator}{denominator}
  • Exponents and subscripts: x^2, x_i
PDF Export: When the notebook is exported to PDF, formulas are rendered in their correct mathematical form.

10.2 Adding a Photo

Taking a photo or choosing an image

  1. Tap on the + button
  2. Choose Camera to take a new photo
  3. Or choose Gallery to select an existing image
  4. The photo is added to the experiment notebook

Rotating a photo

If the photo is poorly framed, you can rotate it:

  • Open the photo card
  • Tap on the Rotation button in the card banner
Automatic copy: If the Copy photos to gallery option is checked in Settings, each photo taken will also be saved to your photo gallery.

11. Kinematic Analysis

Kinematic analysis allows you to study object motion from videos or photos.

11.1 Accessing Kinematic Analysis

  1. Tap on the instrument name at the top
  2. Select Kinematic analysis
  3. Choose: Video kinematics or Chronophotography
Kinematics menu
Video kinematics menu

11.2 Video Kinematics

Concept

  1. Import or select a video
  2. Define the pixel-to-meter conversion scale
  3. Point the object position frame by frame
  4. FizziQ automatically calculates position, velocity, and acceleration

Video sources

OptionDescription
My videosVideos from your library
Video library~30 HD educational videos prepared by FizziQ
Built-in videosFree fall, Parabola, Pendulum (pre-installed)
DownloadImport from an Internet URL

Video library categories

  • Sports: Pole vault, skiing, skating, tennis, diving, soccer...
  • Mechanics: Free fall, uniform motion, accelerated motion, cycloid...
  • Pendulums: Simple pendulum, Newton's pendulum
  • Collisions: Impacts between objects
  • Miscellaneous: Dye drop, SpaceX launches, vehicles...

Step 1: Define the scale

Calibration
Scale calibration
  1. Two circles flash: Origin and End
  2. Move the "Origin" circle to the start of your reference object
  3. Move the "End" circle to the end
  4. Tap on "Ruler length"
  5. Enter the actual value (e.g., 1 for 1 meter)
  6. Confirm

Advanced settings (gear button)

SettingDescription
Frame rateModify if not automatically recognized
SamplingTake 1 frame out of 2 or 3
Detach originPlace (0,0) elsewhere
RotationRotate the image

Step 2: Track the motion

Tracking
Trajectory tracking
  1. Bring the target to the object to track
  2. Tap on the screen to record the position
  3. The video advances to the next frame
  4. Repeat for each frame

Tracking screen buttons

ButtonFunction
TrashDelete all references
CameraTake a photo of the trajectory
EyeHide/show references
Left/Right arrowsNavigate through video
ResultView calculated data

Step 3: View results

Variables
Kinematic variable selection
CategoryQuantitiesDescription
Positionx, yHorizontal and vertical position (m)
VelocityVx, Vy, VComponents and magnitude (m/s)
AccelerationAx, Ay, AComponents and magnitude (m/s2)
RotationalphaRotation angle (degrees)
Energy(Ek, Ep, Em)Kinetic, potential, mechanical energies (J)

Tips for good analysis

  • Use a tripod to stabilize the camera
  • Film perpendicular to the plane of motion
  • Place a ruler or reference object in the frame
  • Use a contrasting background
  • Light the scene properly

11.3 Chronophotography

Analyze a photo showing multiple successive positions of an object.

Access options

  • My images: photo from your gallery
  • Photo library: educational chronophotographs
  • Create from video: convert a video

11.4 Video to Chronophotography Conversion

Conversion
Chronophotography creation

Access

  1. Tools tab
  2. Tap on Video Chrono

Settings

SettingDescription
Frame rate (FPS)Frames per second
IntervalTake 1 frame out of N (1 to 10)
SensitivityMotion detection (1 to 100)
Tips: Use a video with a fixed background and a well-contrasted object.

12. Experimentation Tools

12.1 Sound Synthesizer

Synthesizer
Sound synthesizer

Concept

The synthesizer generates pure sine waves and allows you to superimpose up to 3 voices simultaneously.

Usage

  • + and - buttons: adjust frequency (Hz)
  • Play button: start the sound
  • Red button: stop
  • Volume slider: adjust intensity
WARNING: Do not turn the volume up too high, it can damage your hearing!

Adding multiple voices

  1. Tap on "Add another voice"
  2. For each voice: frequency, volume, phase shift

Creating beats

  1. Add a second voice
  2. Set two slightly different frequencies (e.g., 440 Hz and 442 Hz)
  3. Beat frequency = |f1 - f2|

12.2 Sound Library

Library
Sound library

Collection of calibrated sounds ready to use:

  • Musical notes and tuning forks
  • Sounds for Doppler effect
  • Sounds for Shepard effect
  • Urban noises, sirens...

12.3 Color Synthesis

RGB Mixer
RGB color mixer

Additive synthesis (RGB)

Three sliders: Red (R), Green (G), Blue (B) from 0 to 255.

Experiments

  • R(255) + G(255) + B(0) = Yellow
  • R(255) + G(0) + B(255) = Magenta
  • R(0) + G(255) + B(255) = Cyan
  • All at 255 = White
  • All at 0 = Black

12.4 Sound Stopwatch

Stopwatches
Stopwatch types
Sound stopwatch
Sound stopwatch detail

Concept

Automatically measure time between two sound events.

Usage

  1. Set the sensitivity (detection threshold)
  2. Set the dead time (avoid rebounds)
  3. Tap on Arm
  4. First sound - the stopwatch starts
  5. Second sound - the stopwatch stops

Available stopwatch types

StopwatchDetection
SoundSounds (claps, impacts...)
MotionAcceleration
LightLight variations
MagneticMagnetic field variations

12.5 Triggers

Triggers
Trigger configuration

Possible actions

  • Delayed measurement: take a measurement after a delay
  • Conditional recording: start/stop based on a condition
  • Automatic capture: trigger a capture automatically
  • Alarm: trigger a sound or vibration signal

Condition types

  • Time-based: after a defined delay
  • Sound: when sound exceeds a threshold
  • Motion: when acceleration exceeds a threshold
  • Light: when light changes
  • Magnetic: when magnetic field varies

12.6 Scientific Calculator

Calculator
Built-in scientific calculator

Features

  • Basic operations (+, -, x, /, %)
  • Trigonometric functions (sin, cos, tan...)
  • Logarithms (ln, log)
  • Exponentials, powers, roots
  • Constants (pi, e)
  • Degrees/radians modes

13. AskFizziQ - The AI Assistant

AskFizziQ
AskFizziQ AI assistant

13.1 Access

  1. Tools tab
  2. Tap on AskFizziQ

13.2 Features

  • Scientific questions: physics, chemistry, life sciences
  • Analysis help: attach observations
  • Experiment suggestions: guided protocols

13.3 Response Levels

ModeCharacteristics
Middle schoolSimple vocabulary, analogies, ages 11-15
High schoolMathematical formulas, rigor, ages 15-18
TeacherTechnical language, pedagogical suggestions

13.4 Attaching Observations

  1. Tap on the paperclip icon
  2. Check the observations to attach
  3. Confirm
  4. Type your question
  5. The AI analyzes your data

13.5 Best Practices

  • Ask clear and precise questions
  • Provide necessary context
  • Verify important information
  • Use AI as a help tool

14. External Bluetooth Sensors

14.1 Connecting Microcontrollers

You can connect an Arduino or micro:bit to FizziQ via Bluetooth Low Energy.

Data format

sensorName:value

Examples: tem:23.5 (temperature), hum:65 (humidity)

Recognized prefixes

PrefixTypeUnit
temTemperatureC
humHumidity%
tenVoltageV
intCurrentA
prePressurehPa
lumLuminositylux
co2CO2ppm
phpH-

Complete documentation: www.fizziq.org/connexion-de-capteurs-externes

14.2 FizziQ Connect

FizziQ Connect is a data acquisition box developed by the FizziQ team, based on M5Stack.

Advantages

CriteriaFizziQ ConnectTraditional DAQ
CostVery lowHigh
SoftwareFree (FizziQ)Paid license
ArchitectureOpen (Grove, I2C)Proprietary
PairingAutomaticConfiguration required

Radio Mode (unique innovation)

Broadcasts measurements to all nearby smartphones simultaneously. Ideal for classroom demonstrations!

Compatible probes

  • Waterproof temperature (-55C to +125C)
  • Infrared thermometer (-70C to +380C)
  • Light, distance, pH, CO2 sensors...
  • Ammeter (-4 to +4 A)

14.3 Smartphone Connection

  1. In the Measurements screen, tap on the instrument name
  2. Select External sensors
  3. Tap on Refresh
  4. Select your device
  5. Sensors are automatically detected
Important: No pairing procedure in phone settings is necessary. Everything is done from FizziQ!

15. Export and Sharing

15.1 PDF Export

  1. Open the card in full screen
  2. Share icon
  3. Select PDF
  4. Share or save

15.2 CSV Export

Universal text format compatible with Excel, LibreOffice, Google Sheets.

  1. Share icon
  2. Select CSV

15.3 Image Export

Share > Image menu - PNG capture of the graph.

15.4 FizziQ Files

  • Native .fizziq format
  • Contains all data
  • Can be reopened in FizziQ

15.5 Sharing Methods

  • Email, Messaging (WhatsApp, Messenger...)
  • AirDrop (iOS), Bluetooth
  • Cloud (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud)
  • QR Code (without Internet)

16. Activities and QR Codes

16.1 Activity Catalog

More than 100 activities ready to use.

Catalog
Activity catalog
Protocol
Protocol example

Difficulty levels

LevelColorAudience
Level 1GreenMiddle school
Level 2OrangeEarly high school
Level 3RedLate high school / Higher education

Available themes

Mechanics, Acoustics, Optics, Electricity, Thermodynamics...

16.2 Creating Your Own Activities

  1. Activities tab - +
  2. Select Create a new protocol
  3. Fill in: title, description, steps
  4. Save

16.3 Sharing an Activity

  • Add to notebook
  • Export to PDF
  • Share as QR code (limit: 1200 characters)

16.4 Scanning an Activity QR Code

  1. Activities tab - +
  2. Select Scan a QR code
  3. Point the camera at the QR code
  4. The activity is added automatically
Advantage: No Internet connection is needed for FizziQ QR codes!

17. Settings and Customization

Data settings
Data settings
Settings
General settings

17.1 Data

SettingDescription
SamplingAcquisition frequency
Quadratic adjustmentFor kinematics (high school)
Signal filteringExponential smoothing (intensity 1-99)

17.2 App Settings

  • Screen orientation: horizontal/vertical
  • Sensor organization: by instrument or by theme
  • Language: 20 languages available

17.3 Camera

  • LED for colorimetry: turns on flash
  • Copy photos: saves to gallery
  • Front camera: uses selfie camera

17.4 Calibration

Calibration
Calibration screen

Magnetometer

Perform figure-8 rotations to recalibrate the compass.

Sound level meter

Use the slider to apply a dB offset.

17.5 System Status

System
System and sensor information

Displays: detected sensors, OS version, model, FizziQ version.

18. Tips and Tricks

18.1 Optimizing Measurements

Accelerometer

  • Place the phone on a stable surface for zero
  • Securely attach the phone to the moving object
  • Use a shock-resistant case for impacts

Sound level meter

  • Move away from sources of parasitic noise
  • Do not cover the microphone
  • Calibrate with a reference sound

Colorimeter

  • Ensure constant lighting
  • Avoid reflections
  • Use a white background

GPS

  • Be outdoors with clear sky view
  • Wait for accuracy to stabilize
  • Avoid urban canyons

18.2 Saving Battery

  • Close FizziQ when not in use
  • Reduce sampling frequency
  • Disable GPS when not needed

18.3 Organizing Your Notebook

  • Give explicit titles
  • Add text notes
  • Create a notebook per theme
  • Delete unnecessary measurements

18.4 Troubleshooting

ProblemSolution
Sensor not workingCheck permissions, restart the app
Incorrect valuesCalibrate sensor, check orientation
App crashesUpdate, free memory
Bluetooth not findingCheck sensor is on, move closer
Inaccurate GPSWait outdoors, clear sky view

Appendices

A. Shortcuts and Gestures

GestureAction
Single tapSelect
Long pressContext menu / Reorganize
Swipe leftDelete
PinchZoom out
SpreadZoom in
Double tapReset zoom
DragMove / Navigate

B. Useful Formulas

Mechanics

  • Average velocity: v = delta_x / delta_t
  • Acceleration: a = delta_v / delta_t
  • Free fall: h = (1/2)gt^2
  • Simple pendulum: T = 2*pi*sqrt(L/g)

Acoustics

  • Speed of sound: v = d/t (approx. 340 m/s in air at 20C)
  • Frequency: f = 1/T
  • Beats: f_beat = |f1 - f2|

C. Contact and Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Is FizziQ free?

Yes, FizziQ is 100% free, ad-free, and has no in-app purchases. No account is required.

Does FizziQ work without internet?

Yes, FizziQ works entirely offline. A connection is only needed to share files or use the AskFizziQ assistant.

Which devices are compatible?

FizziQ works on iPhone, iPad, Android smartphones, and tablets. Available sensors depend on your device.

How do I calibrate a sensor?

Go to Settings, then Calibration, select the sensor, and follow the on-screen instructions (usually place the device flat and tap Calibrate).

Why does my sensor show incorrect values?

Try calibrating the sensor. Check that the device is correctly oriented. Some sensors require specific conditions (GPS outdoors, light meter without shadow, etc.).

How do I export my data?

In the experiment notebook, tap Share, choose the format (CSV, PDF, or FizziQ file), and select the destination (email, cloud, etc.).

How do I use video kinematic analysis?

In Tools, then Kinematics, import a video, calibrate the scale, point the object position frame by frame, and the data appears in the notebook.

Is FizziQ Connect included?

The FizziQ app is free and includes FizziQ Connect support. The FizziQ Connect box is separate hardware that needs to be acquired.

What school level is it for?

FizziQ is designed for science education from middle school to university. More than 100 ready-to-use activities are available at fizziq.org/activites.

How do I contact support?

Send an email to [email protected] or visit www.fizziq.org for more resources.

What is the difference between FizziQ and other apps like Phyphox or Physics Toolbox?

FizziQ, Phyphox, and Physics Toolbox are all excellent experimental science apps. Here is what distinguishes FizziQ:

  • Integrated experiment notebook: document your experiments with text, photos, and data in a single document exportable to PDF
  • Video kinematic analysis: frame-by-frame tracking to study motion
  • FizziQ Connect: extension with external Bluetooth sensors (exclusive to FizziQ)
  • Ready-to-use protocols: 100+ educational activities on fizziq.org
  • AskFizziQ: integrated AI assistant to guide experiments
  • Designed in France with the La main a la pate Foundation

All these apps are free and complementary depending on your educational needs.