Sky Elevator
Does a plane climb faster than an elevator?
Author:
Title 4
Learning objectives :
This activity allows students to compare orders of magnitude of vertical speeds in different technological contexts. It develops the ability to analyze GPS data and perform speed calculations.
Concepts covered
Vertical speed, GPS altitude measurement, Average speed calculation, Atmospheric pressure and pressurization, Forces involved in vertical movements
What students will do :
During a plane flight, the student uses the FizziQ GPS to measure and record the altitude during the climb phase over a period of 30 seconds. By analyzing this data, he calculates the ascending speed of the device and compares it to that of the fastest elevator in the world (Shanghai Tower, 20 m/s). The student then thinks about the technical differences between these two vertical transport systems.
What is required :
Smartphone with the FizziQ application and GPS reception, A plane flight, FizziQ experience book
Scientific background :
The ascent speed of an airliner in the initial climb phase is generally between 7 and 10 m/s (approximately 1500-2000 feet/minute), sometimes reaching 15-18 m/s. This speed is determined by factors such as engine thrust, wing lift, aircraft mass and atmospheric conditions. For comparison, the Shanghai Tower elevator reaches 20.5 m/s (74 km/h), making it the fastest in the world. The fundamental difference between these two systems lies in their operation: the elevator uses electric motors and counterweights, while the plane exploits the aerodynamic lift and thrust of its engines. A crucial aspect concerns pressurization: in an elevator, the pressure remains constant because the system is open to the atmosphere, whereas airplanes maintain an artificial cabin pressure, because atmospheric pressure decreases with altitude (approximately -1 hPa every 8.5 m).