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