1/31/10
1/29/10
Frigid Friday
Honors Physics reviewed their lab investigation and then described the relationships between work, internal energy and heat for thermodynamic processes. The ideal processes were studied and the 1st law of thermodynamics examined in light of each of these ideal processes. On Monday, we’ll take up the idea of heat engines and get a little practice with PV diagrams.
Physical Science B and E spent time discussing wave interactions – whether that interaction was with an object or another wave. The basic descriptions of reflection, diffraction, refraction and interference (both constructive and destructive) were examined and examples of each were discussed. On Monday, we’ll review the concept of standing waves, in light of today’s information. The exam for this chapter will be next Thursday, so we’ll have one day of exam review and one day of MCAS wave review on Monday and Tuesday (for B Block) and one day of exam review and one day of lab on Monday and Tuesday (for E Block). E Block will receive their MCAS review packets as a homework assignment.
Physics F took time to describe the three methods of heat transfer (conduction, convection and radiation) and the properties of conduction and insulation for materials. On Monday, you will conduct a lab investigation that will allow you to review some of the concepts from this chapter and this should serve as part of the review for Wednesday’s exam. Tuesday will be the official review day, so bring all your questions with you at that time.
Physics G conducted a lab investigation that had two specific foci – the heat content of fuels (candle wax and Sterno) and the heat of fusion of water. This lab allowed students to examine the process of calorimetry and review some of the ideas of stored chemical energy that they covered in chemistry class. The lab was busy, but folks conducted themselves in a very safe manner – so kudos to you all. Remember that you do not have to complete the lab write up over the weekend; we’ll work on it a bit in class on Monday, before completing the material in the chapter.
Homework
Honors Physics A: None
Physical Science B and E: None
Physics F: Read lab protocol sheet
Physics G: None
Physical Science B and E spent time discussing wave interactions – whether that interaction was with an object or another wave. The basic descriptions of reflection, diffraction, refraction and interference (both constructive and destructive) were examined and examples of each were discussed. On Monday, we’ll review the concept of standing waves, in light of today’s information. The exam for this chapter will be next Thursday, so we’ll have one day of exam review and one day of MCAS wave review on Monday and Tuesday (for B Block) and one day of exam review and one day of lab on Monday and Tuesday (for E Block). E Block will receive their MCAS review packets as a homework assignment.
Physics F took time to describe the three methods of heat transfer (conduction, convection and radiation) and the properties of conduction and insulation for materials. On Monday, you will conduct a lab investigation that will allow you to review some of the concepts from this chapter and this should serve as part of the review for Wednesday’s exam. Tuesday will be the official review day, so bring all your questions with you at that time.
Physics G conducted a lab investigation that had two specific foci – the heat content of fuels (candle wax and Sterno) and the heat of fusion of water. This lab allowed students to examine the process of calorimetry and review some of the ideas of stored chemical energy that they covered in chemistry class. The lab was busy, but folks conducted themselves in a very safe manner – so kudos to you all. Remember that you do not have to complete the lab write up over the weekend; we’ll work on it a bit in class on Monday, before completing the material in the chapter.
Homework
Honors Physics A: None
Physical Science B and E: None
Physics F: Read lab protocol sheet
Physics G: None
1/28/10
Its Getting Hot in Here
Honors Physics A conducted their pressure-temperature lab to good result. One would expect that if the volume of a system was constant, an increase in temperature would produce an increase in pressure. Higher temperature means particles have more momentum. This would make collisions more forceful, thereby increasing pressure. Tomorrow, we’ll start discussing the various thermodynamic processes and how to evaluate work for each (hint: work was not done for the process modeled in lab today).
Physical Science B had an in-depth review of basic wave properties. Students refreshed their brains on the physical features of waves, the definition and calculations of frequency, period and wavelength, the differences between wave types and the influence of type of medium on wave travel. The last part of class was spent discussing the Doppler Effect and describing examples of the Doppler Effect in action.
Physical Science E concluded their review of basic wave properties and then moved into their own discussion of the Doppler Effect. We then took time to preview the next section of material, which concentrates on wave interactions – reflection, refraction, diffraction, interference and the formation of standing waves. We will work with these concepts in depth in the next chapter when we focus on sound and light.
Physics F and G reviewed the concept of latent heat and we discussed the homework problems that dealt with latent heat. The calculations that require you to calculate heat energy transfer when a substance crosses over several phase changes is tedious, but if you can do this easily, you mastered both specific heat calculations and latent heat calculations. Tomorrow, G Block will conduct a series of lab investigations that will concentrate on using calorimetry to determine the energy content of a fuel source and to study the liquid-solid phase change for water.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Complete lab write up
Physical Science B and F: None
Physics F: None
Physics G: Read lab protocol sheet
Physical Science B had an in-depth review of basic wave properties. Students refreshed their brains on the physical features of waves, the definition and calculations of frequency, period and wavelength, the differences between wave types and the influence of type of medium on wave travel. The last part of class was spent discussing the Doppler Effect and describing examples of the Doppler Effect in action.
Physical Science E concluded their review of basic wave properties and then moved into their own discussion of the Doppler Effect. We then took time to preview the next section of material, which concentrates on wave interactions – reflection, refraction, diffraction, interference and the formation of standing waves. We will work with these concepts in depth in the next chapter when we focus on sound and light.
Physics F and G reviewed the concept of latent heat and we discussed the homework problems that dealt with latent heat. The calculations that require you to calculate heat energy transfer when a substance crosses over several phase changes is tedious, but if you can do this easily, you mastered both specific heat calculations and latent heat calculations. Tomorrow, G Block will conduct a series of lab investigations that will concentrate on using calorimetry to determine the energy content of a fuel source and to study the liquid-solid phase change for water.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Complete lab write up
Physical Science B and F: None
Physics F: None
Physics G: Read lab protocol sheet
1/27/10
Back in the Saddle
Sorry to all for being out two days, but I was dead. Expired. Past-tense. You get the picture. But, all reports from the subs were good and solid work was done by all - just shows how little I need to be there at all..
Honors Physics went over their midterm exams and all questions were addressed, since this material will make a return appearance on the final. Plus, we keep using the basics over and over, so everyone should be on as firm a ground as possible. Tomorrow, we'll conduct a lab investigation that targets the pressure-temperature relationship for an isovolumetric thermodynamic process. On Friday, we'll discuss the lab and jump into the deep end of our unit for thermodynamics.
Physical Science B conducted a lab investigation that had students generate and evaluate standing waves. First lesson - making standing waves is not easy! They will only form when exactly 1/2 wavelength will fit in the medium, so you had to get the frequency just right or else you had nothing but dancing spaghetti. Students were able (finally!) to create standing waves with one, two and three antinodes, calculate frequency, wavelength and wave speed for the waves and make predictions about waves with more than three antinodes. We had time in class to discuss the lab and results, so we'll pick up where we left off before midterms in class tomorrow - the Doppler Effect.
Physical Science E reviewed their midterm exams and addressed all questions/problems on the test for which people had issues. We then began to review basic properties of waves by going over the worksheet packet that was distributed on Monday. We'll finish up with that tomorrow, review the calculations for wave speed and then move on to describing the Doppler Effect. Our next area of wave studies will be the topics of reflection, refraction and diffraction. This will be only a cursory overview, as we'll examine these topics in far more detail with the sound and light chapter.
Physics F and G went over their midterm exams and took time to work out any remaining problems with the test items. Keep the exams under lock and key as you will want them as a study tool for the cumulative final exam. We then picked up with heat by reviewing the concept of specific heat and moving forward into latent heat and change of state. We will finish up with that topic tomorrow and the lab work that you will conduct on Friday (G) and Monday (F) will address both specific heat and latent heat. The exam for this chapter will fall middle-end of next week and we'll firm up the date in class.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Read over lab investigation
Physical Science B: Complete lab write up
Physical Science E: None
Physics F and G: None
Monday's classwork/homework
Honors Physics A: Read 11.1 and complete Practice 11A and the 11.1 Section Review
Physical Science B and E: Complete Waves worksheet packet
Physics F and G: Complete Chapter Review items #23-29
Tuesday's classwork/homework
Honors Physics A: Read Section 11.2 and complete the 11.2 Section Review
Physical Science B and E: Read Section 14.3 and complete the 14.3 Section Review.
Physics F and G: Read Section 10.4 in the textbook, complete the 10.4 Section Review and Chapter Review items #34-40
Honors Physics went over their midterm exams and all questions were addressed, since this material will make a return appearance on the final. Plus, we keep using the basics over and over, so everyone should be on as firm a ground as possible. Tomorrow, we'll conduct a lab investigation that targets the pressure-temperature relationship for an isovolumetric thermodynamic process. On Friday, we'll discuss the lab and jump into the deep end of our unit for thermodynamics.
Physical Science B conducted a lab investigation that had students generate and evaluate standing waves. First lesson - making standing waves is not easy! They will only form when exactly 1/2 wavelength will fit in the medium, so you had to get the frequency just right or else you had nothing but dancing spaghetti. Students were able (finally!) to create standing waves with one, two and three antinodes, calculate frequency, wavelength and wave speed for the waves and make predictions about waves with more than three antinodes. We had time in class to discuss the lab and results, so we'll pick up where we left off before midterms in class tomorrow - the Doppler Effect.
Physical Science E reviewed their midterm exams and addressed all questions/problems on the test for which people had issues. We then began to review basic properties of waves by going over the worksheet packet that was distributed on Monday. We'll finish up with that tomorrow, review the calculations for wave speed and then move on to describing the Doppler Effect. Our next area of wave studies will be the topics of reflection, refraction and diffraction. This will be only a cursory overview, as we'll examine these topics in far more detail with the sound and light chapter.
Physics F and G went over their midterm exams and took time to work out any remaining problems with the test items. Keep the exams under lock and key as you will want them as a study tool for the cumulative final exam. We then picked up with heat by reviewing the concept of specific heat and moving forward into latent heat and change of state. We will finish up with that topic tomorrow and the lab work that you will conduct on Friday (G) and Monday (F) will address both specific heat and latent heat. The exam for this chapter will fall middle-end of next week and we'll firm up the date in class.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Read over lab investigation
Physical Science B: Complete lab write up
Physical Science E: None
Physics F and G: None
Monday's classwork/homework
Honors Physics A: Read 11.1 and complete Practice 11A and the 11.1 Section Review
Physical Science B and E: Complete Waves worksheet packet
Physics F and G: Complete Chapter Review items #23-29
Tuesday's classwork/homework
Honors Physics A: Read Section 11.2 and complete the 11.2 Section Review
Physical Science B and E: Read Section 14.3 and complete the 14.3 Section Review.
Physics F and G: Read Section 10.4 in the textbook, complete the 10.4 Section Review and Chapter Review items #34-40
1/22/10
Finally, Friday
The only two classes that met today were Honors Physics and Physics G. Both classes looked over their midterm exams, but we will go over them in detail on Monday. All this material is fair game for the final, so everyone should hold onto their tests and have them available to study at the end of the year.
Next week, Physical Science B and E head back into waves, Physics F and G return to heat and Honors Physics starts the unit on thermodynamics. Lab work will be on standing waves (Physical Science B), pressure-temperature relations in enclosed gas samples (Honors Physics) and phase change + calorimetry (Physics G). Yep, it’s back to the salt mine…
Homework
Everybody - relax after this grueling week...
Next week, Physical Science B and E head back into waves, Physics F and G return to heat and Honors Physics starts the unit on thermodynamics. Lab work will be on standing waves (Physical Science B), pressure-temperature relations in enclosed gas samples (Honors Physics) and phase change + calorimetry (Physics G). Yep, it’s back to the salt mine…
Homework
Everybody - relax after this grueling week...
1/21/10
Adding to Your Reading List
Had a visitor this afternoon and the discussion centered around parallel universes, dark energy and the like. The physics of these types of thing is intriguing and has been considered by all the major players in the physics game. If these sort of ideas interest you, along with things like time travel, you should check out the books by Michio Kaku:
Physics of the Impossible: A Scientific Exploration into the World of Phasers, Force Fields, Teleportation, and Time Travel
Physics of the Impossible: A Scientific Exploration into the World of Phasers, Force Fields, Teleportation, and Time Travel
Hyperspace: A Scientific Odyssey Through Parallel Universes, Time Warps, and the Tenth Dimension
Parallel Worlds: A Journey Through Creation, Higher Dimensions, and the Future of the Cosmos
Stick a Fork in Me...I'm Done
Physical Science E was the last class to take their midterm exams, and they got that over with during the first exam block. So, Physical Science B and E can now get their links to the test and answer key:
Physical Science B and E Midterm Exam
Like the other courses, you can actually take the exam and then check your score, or just click on the “check your work” button at the bottom of the test, say yes to the dialog box and then see the answer key. Really not much else to report, so bye.
Physical Science B and E Midterm Exam
Like the other courses, you can actually take the exam and then check your score, or just click on the “check your work” button at the bottom of the test, say yes to the dialog box and then see the answer key. Really not much else to report, so bye.
1/20/10
Halfway Through
On the chopping block today for midterm exams was Physics F and G blocks. Poor souls…
Physical Science E was the only other class to meet today and the time was used to address any last-minute questions about tomorrow’s midterm. Come with calculators and a “can-do” attitude!
For Honors Physics and Physics F and G, I’m sure you are dying to know how you did on the test. Well, here are links to your exam. Scroll down to the bottom and click the button about checking your work. You’ll get a message box, but tell the machine you want to go ahead and check anyway. You’ll get the questions and answers. If you remember what you put for each question, go on and fill in the test initially and you’ll see how you did.
Honors Physics Midterm Exam
Physics F and G Midterm Exam
Note: For the Honors Physics exam, I accepted both "c" and "d" for question 49. For Physics F and G, I accepted both "a" and "b" for question 2 and "b" and "c" for question 52.
Homework
Everybody: Study, study, study
Physical Science E was the only other class to meet today and the time was used to address any last-minute questions about tomorrow’s midterm. Come with calculators and a “can-do” attitude!
For Honors Physics and Physics F and G, I’m sure you are dying to know how you did on the test. Well, here are links to your exam. Scroll down to the bottom and click the button about checking your work. You’ll get a message box, but tell the machine you want to go ahead and check anyway. You’ll get the questions and answers. If you remember what you put for each question, go on and fill in the test initially and you’ll see how you did.
Honors Physics Midterm Exam
Physics F and G Midterm Exam
Note: For the Honors Physics exam, I accepted both "c" and "d" for question 49. For Physics F and G, I accepted both "a" and "b" for question 2 and "b" and "c" for question 52.
Homework
Everybody: Study, study, study
1/19/10
It Begins!
Honors Physics and Physical Science B had their midterm exams today and Physical Science E did not meet, so there’s not much in the way of news to report for them.
Physics F and G used their class time to review for their midterm exams, which will be tomorrow. Make sure to email me with questions tonight if they arise while preparing.
Homework
Everybody – Study for Midterm Exams
Physical Science B: Have your Waves lab write up and wave speed worksheet ready for our next class meeting
Physical Science E: Have your wave speed worksheet ready for our next class meeting
Physics F and G used their class time to review for their midterm exams, which will be tomorrow. Make sure to email me with questions tonight if they arise while preparing.
Homework
Everybody – Study for Midterm Exams
Physical Science B: Have your Waves lab write up and wave speed worksheet ready for our next class meeting
Physical Science E: Have your wave speed worksheet ready for our next class meeting
1/16/10
1/15/10
1/14/10
The Final Countdown
Honors Physics A finished up their unit on heat and temperature with a comparison of the methods of heat transfer – conduction, convection and radiation. The first two are matter-dependent, but heat transfer by radiation can take place without the presence of a medium. We will go into this method (the transmission of energy without the necessity of a medium) more deeply when we discuss electromagnetic waves in a later chapter. Time was then spent outlining what material from this chapter will be present on the midterm.
Physical Science B went over their heat exams and then conducted a lab targeting the properties of transverse waves. The lab is nice in that you can clearly see the relationship between simple harmonic motion and wave formation, as well as the physical features of wave formations. Further, you get practice measuring/calculating wavelength, frequency and wave speed. Remember, wave information will not be on Tuesday’s midterm exam. Use last year’s test, plus the heat material to guide your studies.
Physical Science E went over their heat exams and then had practice working with the wave speed formula. Evaluation of and calculation of wave speed for both mechanical and electromagnetic waves is a common test item on the MCAS exam, so make sure that you have that skill down pat. Your midterm exam is not until Thursday, and, like B Block, it will not contain any questions about waves.
Physics F and G reviewed their heat formula homework problems and applied this problem-solving technique to the process of calorimetry. Calorimetry is a versatile tool for monitoring heat content of materials and determining a material’s specific heat (and possibly its identity). We will look at calorimetry in lab, so you will get the chance to put the process and mathematical analysis in action.
Homework:
Everybody – Study for Midterm Exams!
Physical Science B went over their heat exams and then conducted a lab targeting the properties of transverse waves. The lab is nice in that you can clearly see the relationship between simple harmonic motion and wave formation, as well as the physical features of wave formations. Further, you get practice measuring/calculating wavelength, frequency and wave speed. Remember, wave information will not be on Tuesday’s midterm exam. Use last year’s test, plus the heat material to guide your studies.
Physical Science E went over their heat exams and then had practice working with the wave speed formula. Evaluation of and calculation of wave speed for both mechanical and electromagnetic waves is a common test item on the MCAS exam, so make sure that you have that skill down pat. Your midterm exam is not until Thursday, and, like B Block, it will not contain any questions about waves.
Physics F and G reviewed their heat formula homework problems and applied this problem-solving technique to the process of calorimetry. Calorimetry is a versatile tool for monitoring heat content of materials and determining a material’s specific heat (and possibly its identity). We will look at calorimetry in lab, so you will get the chance to put the process and mathematical analysis in action.
Homework:
Everybody – Study for Midterm Exams!
1/13/10
More Heat Waves
Honors Physics took time to look at the other side of heat exchange – when heat exchange promotes phase change. We really have to expand out definition of heat to include this phenomenon – heat is energy exchanged between objects at different temperatures or between objects at the same temperature if one of the objects is undergoing a phase change. Heat intake or outflow during a phase changes alters potential energy in a substance, not the kinetic energy or temperature of a substance. We contrasted the heat of vaporization with the heat of fusion and ran through some problems involving both temperature change and phase change. Tomorrow, we’ll finish going over those problems and discuss the methods of heat transfer – conduction, convection and radiation. We’ll also take a few moments to specifically outline what material from the heat chapter you will be likely to see on the midterm exam.
Physical Science B reviewed and summarized the wave material we’ve covered so far and then went over some practice problems for wave speed. Students were then given an additional set of practice for wave speed, frequency and period to work on in class. We will go over those problems tomorrow, if we have time after the lab activity, or during the next period we meet after the midterm. Tomorrow’s lab will allow you to model the properties and characteristics of waves that we have discussed so far and to calculate the speed of the waves that you create in class.
Physical Science E spent time contrasting the transverse waves we studied in lab with longitudinal and surface waves. We then looked in more detail at wave speed calculations and the inverse relationship between wavelength and frequency for waves. The electromagnetic spectrum was used as an example of this relationship – all EM waves travel the same speed in a vacuum (3 x 108 m/s), so if a wave has a short wavelength, it has a high frequency (say the gamma rays), and if it has a long wavelength, it has a low frequency (radio waves). Tomorrow, more practice working problems with wave speed, period and frequency.
Physics F and G jumped back into heat with a discussion of the nature of heat and began an examination of the concept of specific heat. The specific heat definition was outlined and used to explain such phenomenon as a nice cool swimming pool on a hot summer day. Tomorrow, we will go over the homework problems and talk about how we physically determine the specific heat of materials – calorimetry.
Homework
Honors Physics A: None
Physical Science B: Read lab sheet and complete the wave speed packet
Physical Science E: None
Physics F and G: Complete Practice 10C #4,5
Physical Science B reviewed and summarized the wave material we’ve covered so far and then went over some practice problems for wave speed. Students were then given an additional set of practice for wave speed, frequency and period to work on in class. We will go over those problems tomorrow, if we have time after the lab activity, or during the next period we meet after the midterm. Tomorrow’s lab will allow you to model the properties and characteristics of waves that we have discussed so far and to calculate the speed of the waves that you create in class.
Physical Science E spent time contrasting the transverse waves we studied in lab with longitudinal and surface waves. We then looked in more detail at wave speed calculations and the inverse relationship between wavelength and frequency for waves. The electromagnetic spectrum was used as an example of this relationship – all EM waves travel the same speed in a vacuum (3 x 108 m/s), so if a wave has a short wavelength, it has a high frequency (say the gamma rays), and if it has a long wavelength, it has a low frequency (radio waves). Tomorrow, more practice working problems with wave speed, period and frequency.
Physics F and G jumped back into heat with a discussion of the nature of heat and began an examination of the concept of specific heat. The specific heat definition was outlined and used to explain such phenomenon as a nice cool swimming pool on a hot summer day. Tomorrow, we will go over the homework problems and talk about how we physically determine the specific heat of materials – calorimetry.
Homework
Honors Physics A: None
Physical Science B: Read lab sheet and complete the wave speed packet
Physical Science E: None
Physics F and G: Complete Practice 10C #4,5
1/12/10
Closing in on Midterms
Honors Physics went over their Chapter 9 exams and followed that act with the homework problems from last night. This pretty much took the entire period, so we’ll pick up with latent heat tomorrow.
Physical Science B discussed wave properties in more detail and added in wave speed. Important to remember – wave speed in a single medium is constant, all EM waves travel at the same speed in a vacuum, mechanical waves tend to speed up in more dense media and EM waves slow down in more dense media. Questions on these concepts always turn up on the MCAS, as well as using the wave speed equation to solve problems. Also, make sure you have a good idea as to the players, positions and uses of the members of the electromagnetic spectrum. Tomorrow, you’ll get some practice with the math aspects of the chapter, so make sure to have your calculators ready. The last agenda item was preparation for the midterm exam. Students got a copy of last year’s exam plus the answer key. Use that, along with note packs, old tests and practice problem sheets to begin your studying and get help from me when you run across difficulties.
Physical Science E reviewed their transverse wave lab and the properties of waves worksheet that went along with the lab. The lab was nice in that it allowed you to tie together simple harmonic motion with wave formation and made you work with all the features and calculations associated with waves in this section. We then took time to discuss the upcoming midterm exam and strategies for success on that test. Remember – planning ahead is your best friend!
Physics F and G spent time working on test corrections. This batch was a bit on the low side, but you also had a pretty interrupted chapter to work with. So, work hard on making the corrections and get them to me ASAP. You will want your corrected papers to use for studying for the midterm exam. Speaking of midterm exams, students were given a copy of last year’s midterm exam and also the solutions key for the test. Use that to guide you in preparing for next week’s activities.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Practice 10D #1,5,6 and the 10.3 Section Review
Physical Science B and E: None
Physics F and G: Complete test corrections
Physical Science B discussed wave properties in more detail and added in wave speed. Important to remember – wave speed in a single medium is constant, all EM waves travel at the same speed in a vacuum, mechanical waves tend to speed up in more dense media and EM waves slow down in more dense media. Questions on these concepts always turn up on the MCAS, as well as using the wave speed equation to solve problems. Also, make sure you have a good idea as to the players, positions and uses of the members of the electromagnetic spectrum. Tomorrow, you’ll get some practice with the math aspects of the chapter, so make sure to have your calculators ready. The last agenda item was preparation for the midterm exam. Students got a copy of last year’s exam plus the answer key. Use that, along with note packs, old tests and practice problem sheets to begin your studying and get help from me when you run across difficulties.
Physical Science E reviewed their transverse wave lab and the properties of waves worksheet that went along with the lab. The lab was nice in that it allowed you to tie together simple harmonic motion with wave formation and made you work with all the features and calculations associated with waves in this section. We then took time to discuss the upcoming midterm exam and strategies for success on that test. Remember – planning ahead is your best friend!
Physics F and G spent time working on test corrections. This batch was a bit on the low side, but you also had a pretty interrupted chapter to work with. So, work hard on making the corrections and get them to me ASAP. You will want your corrected papers to use for studying for the midterm exam. Speaking of midterm exams, students were given a copy of last year’s midterm exam and also the solutions key for the test. Use that to guide you in preparing for next week’s activities.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Practice 10D #1,5,6 and the 10.3 Section Review
Physical Science B and E: None
Physics F and G: Complete test corrections
1/11/10
Waves of Heat
Honors Physics reviewed the basic nature of temperature and then brought heat and internal energy into the picture. Remember, heat is energy in transit – we call it it heat when energy moves between two objects that differ in temperature. Not all objects respond the same when they receive or donate heat energy – they vary in the amount of temperature change they experience as a consequence of the gain/loss of heat. This property of matter – specific heat – states a substance’s ability to demonstrate a temperature change when heat energy is given to it or taken away from it. The conservation of energy problems you have for homework likely won’t give you any difficulty, but the calorimetry set is a bit tougher. We’ll review all these problems and the calorimetry process tomorrow before sailing on to latent heat.
Physical Science B completed their discussion of wave types and began to examine features of waves. You should be able to contrast and give examples of mechanical/electromagnetic waves and transverse/longitudinal waves. Also, be clear as to the physical features of a wave – crest, trough, amplitude, wavelength, and the properties of period and frequency. We will work with wave speed tomorrow and make sure that everyone has practice working with the wave speed formula.
Physical Science E conducted a lab investigation on the properties of transverse waves. Waves were created through the simple harmonic motion of a pendulum system and wavelength, amplitude, period and frequency were measured and wave speed was calculated. Students had to work hard to get a clean wave trice, but all groups accomplished the task nicely. Tomorrow, we will look in more detail at the properties of waves and practice more with the calculation of wave speed.
Physics F and G were subject to exams today and will move further tomorrow into the area of heat. We’ve touched on temperature already, so we’ll be starting off with heat energy and its effects on internal energy.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Practice 10B and 10C
Physical Science B: Read section 14.2 in the text and complete the Section Review (p.471) and the Practice on p.468
Physical Science E: Complete lab write ups and Types of Waves worksheet
Physics F and G: Read section 10.2 in the textbook and answer the Section Review questions (p. 370), as well as the Chapter Review items #12-19
Physical Science B completed their discussion of wave types and began to examine features of waves. You should be able to contrast and give examples of mechanical/electromagnetic waves and transverse/longitudinal waves. Also, be clear as to the physical features of a wave – crest, trough, amplitude, wavelength, and the properties of period and frequency. We will work with wave speed tomorrow and make sure that everyone has practice working with the wave speed formula.
Physical Science E conducted a lab investigation on the properties of transverse waves. Waves were created through the simple harmonic motion of a pendulum system and wavelength, amplitude, period and frequency were measured and wave speed was calculated. Students had to work hard to get a clean wave trice, but all groups accomplished the task nicely. Tomorrow, we will look in more detail at the properties of waves and practice more with the calculation of wave speed.
Physics F and G were subject to exams today and will move further tomorrow into the area of heat. We’ve touched on temperature already, so we’ll be starting off with heat energy and its effects on internal energy.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Practice 10B and 10C
Physical Science B: Read section 14.2 in the text and complete the Section Review (p.471) and the Practice on p.468
Physical Science E: Complete lab write ups and Types of Waves worksheet
Physics F and G: Read section 10.2 in the textbook and answer the Section Review questions (p. 370), as well as the Chapter Review items #12-19
1/8/10
TGI Phriday!
Honors Physics embarked on a new unit – the wonderful world of heat. Today’s discussion centered around defining temperature and internal energy, temperature change in substances and how to measure them and the properties of the common temperature scales. On Monday, we will add heat to the picture and see how it influences temperature and internal energy.
Physical Science B and E also trod new ground – wild and wooly waves. We described the properties of waves, clarified that waves are energy in motion, contrasted mechanical and electromagnetic waves, as well as transverse and longitudinal waves. We’ll review over this on Monday and continue putting the properties of waves under the spotlight. E Block will take a hand’s on approach with this as they make both transverse and standing waves and evaluate their properties.
Physics F conducted their Boyle’s Law lab and, as with previous classes, got very good results. The inverse relationship between pressure and volume in a constant temperature system was clearly visible. Further, you got to practice some math and graphing skills by evaluating the inverse relationship in a variety of ways. Lab write up is not due until Tuesday, so you don’t have that on your plate as well as studying for Monday’s exam.
Physics G reviewed their lab activity and then went through the chapter spotlighting testable material. Have your lab write-ups ready for Tuesday and use the time until then to prepare for Monday’s exam.
Homework
Honors Physics A: None
Physical Science B and E: None
Physics F and G: Prepare for Chapter 9 Exam; lab write-ups due on Tuesday
Physical Science B and E also trod new ground – wild and wooly waves. We described the properties of waves, clarified that waves are energy in motion, contrasted mechanical and electromagnetic waves, as well as transverse and longitudinal waves. We’ll review over this on Monday and continue putting the properties of waves under the spotlight. E Block will take a hand’s on approach with this as they make both transverse and standing waves and evaluate their properties.
Physics F conducted their Boyle’s Law lab and, as with previous classes, got very good results. The inverse relationship between pressure and volume in a constant temperature system was clearly visible. Further, you got to practice some math and graphing skills by evaluating the inverse relationship in a variety of ways. Lab write up is not due until Tuesday, so you don’t have that on your plate as well as studying for Monday’s exam.
Physics G reviewed their lab activity and then went through the chapter spotlighting testable material. Have your lab write-ups ready for Tuesday and use the time until then to prepare for Monday’s exam.
Homework
Honors Physics A: None
Physical Science B and E: None
Physics F and G: Prepare for Chapter 9 Exam; lab write-ups due on Tuesday
1/7/10
Bright, Bright Sunshiney Day
A test day for most folks – Honors Physics and both sections of Physical Science underwent their graded learning experiences. Tomorrow – new units for all! Honors Physic s moves into heat and Physical Science passes into waves.
Physics F reviewed for their exam on Monday. We walked through the chapter and went over the review worksheet given for homework. Tomorrow – Boyle’s Law lab.
Physics G conducted their Boyle’s Lab investigation. As pressure rises, we would predict that (if temperature remains constant), volume of a gas sample would decrease. The results of today’s investigation bore that out – there existed an inverse relationship between pressure and volume for the air in the syringe. Tomorrow is slated as a review day, so don’t rush to get your lab synopsis finished. Instead, make sure you have completed the review worksheet and come with questions about the exam material.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Read 10.1 and complete the 10.1 Section Review #1, 2, 4 plus p. 387 #1-10
Physical Science B and E: Read 14.1 and complete the 14.1 Section Review plus p. 482 #44
Physics F: Read lab sheet
Physics G: Complete review worksheet (given out yesterday) and prepare for exam review
Physics F reviewed for their exam on Monday. We walked through the chapter and went over the review worksheet given for homework. Tomorrow – Boyle’s Law lab.
Physics G conducted their Boyle’s Lab investigation. As pressure rises, we would predict that (if temperature remains constant), volume of a gas sample would decrease. The results of today’s investigation bore that out – there existed an inverse relationship between pressure and volume for the air in the syringe. Tomorrow is slated as a review day, so don’t rush to get your lab synopsis finished. Instead, make sure you have completed the review worksheet and come with questions about the exam material.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Read 10.1 and complete the 10.1 Section Review #1, 2, 4 plus p. 387 #1-10
Physical Science B and E: Read 14.1 and complete the 14.1 Section Review plus p. 482 #44
Physics F: Read lab sheet
Physics G: Complete review worksheet (given out yesterday) and prepare for exam review
1/6/10
Smells
Between the wood shop and the foods room, some days just smell weirder than others...today was such a day...
Honors Physics conducted an investigation into the relationship between pressure and volume for a contained sample of gas. Boyle’s Law predicts that if temperature in a system remains constant, there is an inverse relationship between pressure and volume for a gas sample. As pressure goes up, volume goes down and vice versa. The Boyle’s Law formula (P1V1 = P2V2) allows you to quantify this relationship and make predictions as to the new pressure or volume in a gas sample that experiences an environmental change. The data collected looked very good and the relationships were clean and very easy to observe. Tomorrow – exam on fluids. Lab write up is not due until Friday, so use your time tonight for studying.
Physical Science B reviewed their lab activity and moved into a general review of the chapter in preparation for tomorrow’s exam. There is not a lot of math in this chapter, but the heat formula shows up in a variety of applications, so make sure that you are very comfortable working with it. Have your lab write up ready on Friday and on that day, we will begin our examination of states of matter. This will extend your study of heat and temperature to their effects on the properties of matter. Physical Science E reviewed for tomorrow’s exam by going over the homework questions and retracing our steps through the chapter. Any questions for any section – see me before school tomorrow.
Physics F and G completed their introduction to heat and temperature by discussing the various temperature scales and getting a look at how thermometers function though thermal expansion. G block will conduct their Boyle’s Law investigation tomorrow and F Block’s turn will be on Friday. F Block will have exam review tomorrow and G Block will have it on Friday. Test Monday and then deeper into heat.
Homework
Honors Physics: Prepare for exam
Physical Science B and E: Prepare for exam
Physics F: Complete Chapter 9 Review Worksheet
Physics G: Read lab sheet and complete Chapter 9 Review Worksheet
Honors Physics conducted an investigation into the relationship between pressure and volume for a contained sample of gas. Boyle’s Law predicts that if temperature in a system remains constant, there is an inverse relationship between pressure and volume for a gas sample. As pressure goes up, volume goes down and vice versa. The Boyle’s Law formula (P1V1 = P2V2) allows you to quantify this relationship and make predictions as to the new pressure or volume in a gas sample that experiences an environmental change. The data collected looked very good and the relationships were clean and very easy to observe. Tomorrow – exam on fluids. Lab write up is not due until Friday, so use your time tonight for studying.
Physical Science B reviewed their lab activity and moved into a general review of the chapter in preparation for tomorrow’s exam. There is not a lot of math in this chapter, but the heat formula shows up in a variety of applications, so make sure that you are very comfortable working with it. Have your lab write up ready on Friday and on that day, we will begin our examination of states of matter. This will extend your study of heat and temperature to their effects on the properties of matter. Physical Science E reviewed for tomorrow’s exam by going over the homework questions and retracing our steps through the chapter. Any questions for any section – see me before school tomorrow.
Physics F and G completed their introduction to heat and temperature by discussing the various temperature scales and getting a look at how thermometers function though thermal expansion. G block will conduct their Boyle’s Law investigation tomorrow and F Block’s turn will be on Friday. F Block will have exam review tomorrow and G Block will have it on Friday. Test Monday and then deeper into heat.
Homework
Honors Physics: Prepare for exam
Physical Science B and E: Prepare for exam
Physics F: Complete Chapter 9 Review Worksheet
Physics G: Read lab sheet and complete Chapter 9 Review Worksheet
1/5/10
All About the Heat
Honors Physics reviewed for Thursday’s exam by going over the review material assigned for homework. Tomorrow’s lab will allow you to investigate Boyle’s Law in more detail and you should also have time to ask any final questions about Thursday’s exam. We will actually look at the behavior of gases later with the chapter on Thermodynamics and do lab work that will demonstrate the pressure, temperature and volume relationships more clearly (as well as relate them to work).
Physical Science B conducted a lab investigation that allowed students to examine the pattern of heat transfer between two substances at different temperatures and to calculate the amount of energy released by a fuel (candle wax). For the mixing of hot and cold water, the symmetry of the plots was quite striking. Since the identity of the substances was the same, they had the same specific heat. For every morsel of heat energy the hot water transferred to the cold water, the temperature changes produced in the water samples was the same. The hot water lost the same amount of temperature as the cold water gained. If the substances were not identical, we would not see the same pattern for temperature change, but the fact that the amount of heat lost by the higher temperature substance equals the amount of heat gained by the lower temperature substance would still be valid. For the candle wax, the potential energy stored in the chemical bonds of the wax was transmitted to the water in the soda can (our makeshift calorimeter) and students were able to measure the amount of energy released by monitoring the temperature change of the water in the can. Tomorrow, we will go over the lab more fully and also take time to review for Thursday’s exam. Remember that the lab write up is due on Friday.
Physical Science E discussed the connection between heat, temperature and work. An increase in an object’s temperature can be produced by the transference of heat, but it can also be altered by the object doing work or having work done on it. The work is converted into internal energy that raises the temperature of the object. So, an object can experience a temperature change through a couple of mechanisms – heat transfer or work. In the next chapter we’ll see what happens when heat transfer or work does not produce a temperature change – the concept of change of state.
Physics F and G completed their discussion on the behavior of gases and moved on to a discussion of temperature. Yes, this is in the next chapter, but it dovetails nicely with our current topic, so just chill. The lab for this week will center on Boyle’s Law and allow you more time to reflect on the nature of gases. Exam on Monday, so be ready with questions for your day of review.
Homework
Physical Science B conducted a lab investigation that allowed students to examine the pattern of heat transfer between two substances at different temperatures and to calculate the amount of energy released by a fuel (candle wax). For the mixing of hot and cold water, the symmetry of the plots was quite striking. Since the identity of the substances was the same, they had the same specific heat. For every morsel of heat energy the hot water transferred to the cold water, the temperature changes produced in the water samples was the same. The hot water lost the same amount of temperature as the cold water gained. If the substances were not identical, we would not see the same pattern for temperature change, but the fact that the amount of heat lost by the higher temperature substance equals the amount of heat gained by the lower temperature substance would still be valid. For the candle wax, the potential energy stored in the chemical bonds of the wax was transmitted to the water in the soda can (our makeshift calorimeter) and students were able to measure the amount of energy released by monitoring the temperature change of the water in the can. Tomorrow, we will go over the lab more fully and also take time to review for Thursday’s exam. Remember that the lab write up is due on Friday.
Physical Science E discussed the connection between heat, temperature and work. An increase in an object’s temperature can be produced by the transference of heat, but it can also be altered by the object doing work or having work done on it. The work is converted into internal energy that raises the temperature of the object. So, an object can experience a temperature change through a couple of mechanisms – heat transfer or work. In the next chapter we’ll see what happens when heat transfer or work does not produce a temperature change – the concept of change of state.
Physics F and G completed their discussion on the behavior of gases and moved on to a discussion of temperature. Yes, this is in the next chapter, but it dovetails nicely with our current topic, so just chill. The lab for this week will center on Boyle’s Law and allow you more time to reflect on the nature of gases. Exam on Monday, so be ready with questions for your day of review.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Read over lab sheet
Physical Science B: Complete MCAS Review and Chapter Review #28, 34, 37-39, 41
Physical Science E: Chapter Review #28, 34, 37-39, 41
Physics F and G: Complete the 10.1 Section Review
1/4/10
We're Back
...and that's really all I have to say about that...
Honors Physics reviewed forces and fluids in preparation for Thursday’s exam. We’ll go over the homework assignment tomorrow and address any additional problems/questions for the test. Wednesday’s lab will center around Boyle’s Law – how the volume of a sample of gas varies with changes in pressure.
Physical Science B discussed the relationship between heat and work. From the observation that drilling cannon barrels caused water to boil, the ability of work to generate energy and energy to generate work has been studied and put to practical use. Tomorrow’s lab will allow you to examine heat transfer between substances graphically and use the heat formula to evaluate heat transfer and heat stored in these systems. On Wednesday, we will review the lab and the chapter material in preparation for Thursday’s exam.
Physics E had a chance to more thoroughly discuss the function of the calorimeters that they used in their labs and work a few practice problems focusing on calorimetry. Tomorrow, we will examine the relationship between heat and work and have a brief overview of the function of heat engines. Wednesday, a day of review…Thursday – exam.
Physics F and G spent time briefly reviewing the chapter so far and then moved into a discussion of gases. A lot of what we talked about today should have been review if you had chemistry – kinetic theory of matter, the gas laws, etc. We are looking at an exam for this chapter next Monday and will dip our toes into the next chapter prior to the exam. Not a problem, as the material will deal with temperature and that ties in nicely with our work on gases. The lab for this week will focus on one specific gas law – Boyle’s Law – which specifies an inverse relationship between pressure and volume for a gas sample.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Chapter 9 Mixed Review worksheet and Chapter Review items #20-22, 25, 40 and 66
Physical Science B: Complete the MCAS specific heat review items
Physical Science E: None
Physics F and G: Practice 9E #1,2 and the 9.4 Section Review on page 341
Honors Physics reviewed forces and fluids in preparation for Thursday’s exam. We’ll go over the homework assignment tomorrow and address any additional problems/questions for the test. Wednesday’s lab will center around Boyle’s Law – how the volume of a sample of gas varies with changes in pressure.
Physical Science B discussed the relationship between heat and work. From the observation that drilling cannon barrels caused water to boil, the ability of work to generate energy and energy to generate work has been studied and put to practical use. Tomorrow’s lab will allow you to examine heat transfer between substances graphically and use the heat formula to evaluate heat transfer and heat stored in these systems. On Wednesday, we will review the lab and the chapter material in preparation for Thursday’s exam.
Physics E had a chance to more thoroughly discuss the function of the calorimeters that they used in their labs and work a few practice problems focusing on calorimetry. Tomorrow, we will examine the relationship between heat and work and have a brief overview of the function of heat engines. Wednesday, a day of review…Thursday – exam.
Physics F and G spent time briefly reviewing the chapter so far and then moved into a discussion of gases. A lot of what we talked about today should have been review if you had chemistry – kinetic theory of matter, the gas laws, etc. We are looking at an exam for this chapter next Monday and will dip our toes into the next chapter prior to the exam. Not a problem, as the material will deal with temperature and that ties in nicely with our work on gases. The lab for this week will focus on one specific gas law – Boyle’s Law – which specifies an inverse relationship between pressure and volume for a gas sample.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Chapter 9 Mixed Review worksheet and Chapter Review items #20-22, 25, 40 and 66
Physical Science B: Complete the MCAS specific heat review items
Physical Science E: None
Physics F and G: Practice 9E #1,2 and the 9.4 Section Review on page 341
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