Determine g using Lato Lato

Abstract

We demonstrated the measurement of the Earth’s gravitational acceleration ( g ) by using Lato Lato, a popular children’s toy in Indonesia right now. We compared the obtained results with the value of the measured gravitational acceleration using a simple pendulum. The smart phone was used to record the videos of the experiment, and then we analysed the video to obtain the deviation angle (ϑ) and duration of the pendulum movement (t) of Lato Lato to determine g . The value obtained from the measurement using Lato Lato is ( 9.776 ± 0.007 ) m s−2, while 9.774 ± 0.048 m s−2 is obtained by using a simple pendulum. It shows that the accuracy levels of the two techniques are comparable. Therefore, Lato Lato can be used as a simple and low-cost experimental tool for measuring the acceleration due to gravity. It is supposed to become an addition to methods that are commonly used, such as a simple pendulum and a physical pendulum.

Demonstration of conservation of momentum using Lato Lato 2.0

“…Since many children find it challenging to play Lato Lato (Lato Lato 1.0), Lato Lato 2.0 was created. The Lato Lato 2.0 was designed differently than the Lato Lato 1.0, which consisted of two identical solid balls connected by a rope [6]. Compared to the Lato Lato 1.0, the Lato Lato 2.0 is simpler to use with this design to produce circular, periodic movements of two balls.…”

Playing lato–lato is difficult and this is why

“…Previously some reports and articles have been written revolving around lato-lato. However, most seem to focus on how educators can implement lato-lato in teaching physics [4][5][6]. As we all know, the physical essence of the toy lato-lato lies in the law of momentum conservation; the collisions that occur between the plastic spheres are such that p i = p f [7,8].…”

The dynamics of Lato Lato ball collisions

“…Lato Lato (clackers) are a popular children's toy in Indonesia from late 2022 to early 2023, despite having existed since the late 1960s [1]. The configuration and how to play Lato Lato have been described by Wibowo [2]. Numerous physics phenomena can be observed with these toys.…”

“…Numerous physics phenomena can be observed with these toys. Lato can therefore be used as a learning tool for physics [2][3][4]. Most recently, Lato Lato has been used to demonstrate the law of conservation of momentum [3] and estimate the gravitational acceleration of the Earth [2].…”

“…Lato can therefore be used as a learning tool for physics [2][3][4]. Most recently, Lato Lato has been used to demonstrate the law of conservation of momentum [3] and estimate the gravitational acceleration of the Earth [2]. Even though Lato Lato has been the subject of numerous articles, playing Lato Lato can nevertheless disclose a plethora of additional information.…”