When learning about motion, it is important to understand the concept of frame of reference. In this lesson, you will learn how to identify and describe frame of reference in relation to different types of motion. This section of the lesson provides a brief introduction to frame of reference.

What is Frame of Reference?

Take a moment to watch this brief video introducing frame of reference. Take notes.

Exploring Frame of Reference

A ball is bouncing at regular intervals. Each observer cannot look up or down or they will all fall, so they each only see the balls that reach their level of observation. Release the ball three times and count the number of times each observer sees the ball. The graph gives a reference point for the height the balls are bouncing.

Answer the following questions in your notes.

1. Explain why each observer noticed a different number of bounces. Interactive popup. Assistance may be required.

   Check Your Answer

   Depending on where the observer is located, they only see the balls that appeared at their height. The one on the bottom observes all of the balls, but the one on the top only sees the balls that reach his height.
2. How would you define frame of reference? Interactive popup. Assistance may be required.

   Check Your Answer

   A frame of reference is a coordinate system used to determine the exact location of an object in space.
3. How does frame of reference impact your perception of motion? Interactive popup. Assistance may be required.

   Check Your Answer

   The object’s movement looks different based upon your frame of reference.

    

In the following sections of this lesson, you will learn more about the frame of reference from different perspectives.