April 16, 2018Solving ‘roller coaster’ energy problemsTutorial walking students through solving energy problems involving roller coasters. Categories Physics Comments: 0
July 26, 2015Bouncing Ball Lab Introduces Models and Foreshadows Future Physics ConceptsI use this lab as an introduction to my physics class at all levels: First year and AP. The goal of the lab is to introduce students to the role of physics in making predictions, and for me to see where they have strengths and weaknesses in lab procedures and data analysis. Categories Modeling/Physics/Science Education Comments: 9
July 21, 2009Target shoot: Ball on ramp, conservation of energyMany physics teachers do a “target shoot” lab for conservation of energy. The basics of the lab is that students roll a ball down a curved ramp and predict where it will land. By calculating the change in gravitational energy from the top to the bottom of the ramp (“Phase A” in the sketch), students can use this as the... Categories Modeling/Physics/Science Education Comment: 1