I am considering building an ark...I already have two dogs...
Honors Physics discussed yesterday's lab and any discrepancies in data that they might have noticed. We then went over the homework questions/problems and the open-book vibrations and waves quiz. Finally, it was time for new material and that material was harmonics. For musical instruments, harmonics produce the characteristic sounds on instruments and the overall quality of the sound. The overtones for the tuning fork that you documented in your lab were harmonics of the tuning fork's fundamental frequency. Stringed instruments and pipes open at both ends are able to produce a full harmonic series. Pipes closed at one end are restricted to the odd harmonics. Additionally, these instruments have, for their fundamental frequencies, corresponding wavelengths that are 4x the length of the vibrating air column. The stringed instruments and pipes open at both ends have wavelengths for their fundamental frequencies that are 2x the length of the vibrating media. The difference is that for strings and open pipes, each end of the vibrating material is identical - both nodes or both antinodes. For a pipe closed at one end, one terminus is a node and the other is an antinode. Be sure to have these distinctions well in mind for next week's test. Tomorrow - beats!
Physical Science B examined mirrors. Plane, convex and concave - mirrors rely on reflection for image formation. Plane and convex mirrors only form virtual images but concave mirrors can form both virtual and real images. Students had the chance to handle each type of curved mirror and examine a large convex mirror that had been used as a security mirror. A little bit of color was discussed, but more of that will be had during tomorrow's film and in class on Monday.
Physical Science E watched their light and color film - fairly basic but covered all the high points. We will review the basics of light and color tomorrow and begin to discuss another behavior of light - refraction. On Monday, you'll conduct a few lab investigations on properties of light: reflectivity, polarization and intensity.
Physics F spent time finalizing their discussion of sound. The concept of harmonics was defined and harmonic series for various types of instruments was discussed. The role of harmonics in producing the characteristic sound of different instruments was examined, as was the importance of harmonics in producing enjoyable music. Then, the phenomenon of beats was introduced - alternating constructive and destructive interference that can be used to determine how out of tune is a particular instrument. Tomorrow, a series of lab investigations on properties of sound.
Physics G conducted their sound lab investigations today. The speed of sound was determined for room temperature air and for heated air. Then, the sound profile for tuning forks, the human voice and a computer-generated tone dialer was examined. Tuning forks produced fairly clear sine curves when lightly struck and more complex waveforms when firmly struck. This was due to the production of overtones (harmonics). The audio profile for the human voice was also complex. Humans do not emit a single note when they speak or sing, there are other tones blended in that were demonstrated on the computer. The tone pattern for the tone dialer is designed that each number is represented by two tones: a row tone and a column tone. In this way, note frequency combinations generate numerical information for the phone company. Tomorrow, we'll discuss the lab and take time to more closely examine those overtones in our discussion of harmonics.
Homework
Honors Physics A: None
Physical Science B: None
Physical Science E: Chapter Review items #22-25 and p. 519 #1-3
Physics F: Read lab protocol sheet and complete Chapter Review items #29-38
Physics G: Complete lab write up
2/25/10
2/24/10
Raining Cats and Dogs
We better have good flowers this spring to compensate for all this rain...
Honors Physics conducted a series of lab investigations on sound. The first experiment allowed students to determine the speed of sound at room temperature and compare that to the speed of sound in heated air. Based on kinetic theory, we would expect that the speed of sound in the heated air would be greater due to the greater velocity of the air particles, and this was found to be the case. The next set of experiments dealt with properties of sound produced by different sources. A softly and firmly struck tuning fork demonstrated the fundamental tone and the fundamental tone and overtones, respectively. The human voice is not like a tuning fork. A variety of tones are produced with each vocalization and this makes the more complex waveform that you saw on the computer. The final experiment let students determine how tones are used by a telephone to send number information. On a touch pad, there are column and row frequencies. Each number is designated by two tones – the one corresponding to its row and the one corresponding to its column. Tomorrow, we’ll go over the labs in more detail and then begin our discussion of musical instruments and harmonics.
Physical Science B discussed their lab and took time to make a few corrections to some calculations. Attention was then turned to reflection and plane mirrors. the law of reflection holds regardless of surface type, but different surfaces vary in their reflective abilities. We contrasted diffuse and specular reflection and used the plane mirror as an exemplar for how to analyze reflection on smooth surfaces. Tomorrow, curved mirrors and color!
Physical Science E took time to review the basic principles of reflection and plane mirrors and then extended this to curved mirrors. Based on mirror type and distance of object to mirror, we have the possibility of forming both real and virtual images. We then turned attention to color and discussed the role of reflection in color production. Tomorrow, we will watch a video that summarizes basic properties of light and does a nice job of explaining additive and subtractive color systems.
Physics F and G discussed the factors that affect how loud sounds seem to people. We disentangled the relationships between intensity, relative intensity, loudness and the decibel scale. We also took time to discuss the effects of sound on humans and the topic of noise pollution. Tomorrow, G Block will conduct their lab investigations for sound and F block will move into the area of harmonics.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Complete lab write up
Physical Science B: None
Physical Science E: None
Physics F: Conceptual Challenge p. 502 and the 13.3 Section Review
Physics G: Read lab protocol sheet and complete the 13.3 Section Review and Conceptual Challenge (p. 502) for Friday
Honors Physics conducted a series of lab investigations on sound. The first experiment allowed students to determine the speed of sound at room temperature and compare that to the speed of sound in heated air. Based on kinetic theory, we would expect that the speed of sound in the heated air would be greater due to the greater velocity of the air particles, and this was found to be the case. The next set of experiments dealt with properties of sound produced by different sources. A softly and firmly struck tuning fork demonstrated the fundamental tone and the fundamental tone and overtones, respectively. The human voice is not like a tuning fork. A variety of tones are produced with each vocalization and this makes the more complex waveform that you saw on the computer. The final experiment let students determine how tones are used by a telephone to send number information. On a touch pad, there are column and row frequencies. Each number is designated by two tones – the one corresponding to its row and the one corresponding to its column. Tomorrow, we’ll go over the labs in more detail and then begin our discussion of musical instruments and harmonics.
Physical Science B discussed their lab and took time to make a few corrections to some calculations. Attention was then turned to reflection and plane mirrors. the law of reflection holds regardless of surface type, but different surfaces vary in their reflective abilities. We contrasted diffuse and specular reflection and used the plane mirror as an exemplar for how to analyze reflection on smooth surfaces. Tomorrow, curved mirrors and color!
Physical Science E took time to review the basic principles of reflection and plane mirrors and then extended this to curved mirrors. Based on mirror type and distance of object to mirror, we have the possibility of forming both real and virtual images. We then turned attention to color and discussed the role of reflection in color production. Tomorrow, we will watch a video that summarizes basic properties of light and does a nice job of explaining additive and subtractive color systems.
Physics F and G discussed the factors that affect how loud sounds seem to people. We disentangled the relationships between intensity, relative intensity, loudness and the decibel scale. We also took time to discuss the effects of sound on humans and the topic of noise pollution. Tomorrow, G Block will conduct their lab investigations for sound and F block will move into the area of harmonics.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Complete lab write up
Physical Science B: None
Physical Science E: None
Physics F: Conceptual Challenge p. 502 and the 13.3 Section Review
Physics G: Read lab protocol sheet and complete the 13.3 Section Review and Conceptual Challenge (p. 502) for Friday
2/23/10
Sound and Light
Honors Physics continued to explore sound with a discussion of sound intensity and loudness. Intensity is a function purely of the wave and distance from the source; loudness references how we perceive the intensity. We discussed the decibel scale and the effects of sounds in the “loud” range and beyond on humans. Attention then turned to the concept of resonance – a frequency-specific forced vibration in an object. We looked at some examples of resonance and will dig into this concept more deeply as we begin to study musical instruments. Tomorrow’s lab will allow you to work with basic concepts of sound, such as speed and features of the wave, and, if time permits, let’s you gain insight into how a touch-tone phone conveys information through tones.
Physical Science B investigated light in a series of three experiments. One experiment focused on reflectivity of light and few were surprised when dark colors and dull textures showed less reflectivity than lighter colors or shiny textures. The second experiment had students work with polarizing filters to document the transverse nature of light waves and to get an idea of how polarizing filters on cameras and polarizing sunglasses function to reduce glare. The final experiment targeted the inverse-square relationship associated with light intensity. As an observer moves away from a light source, the intensity drops quickly, as predicted by the formula: I = P/4πr2. We’ll discuss these labs in class tomorrow and move on to examining reflection of light in more depth.
Physical Science E began discussing behaviors of light, starting with reflection. When light meets an impenetrable boundary, it is either absorbed by the material or reflected off of the material. While there is no material that is a perfect absorber or reflector, most things lean heavily in one direction. We contrasted specular and diffuse reflection, used the law of reflection to predicted reflected angles based on angles on incidence and started to examine reflection by plane mirrors. We’ll add curved mirrors to the list tomorrow, along with color.
Physics F and G embarked on their study of sound by revisiting basic properties of longitudinal and mechanical waves and then applying some sound-specific vocabulary to these concepts. Hearing and vocalization in various species was examined and the use of ultrasonic waves by humans and animals was described. Tomorrow, we continue on with sound, concentrating on loudness and resonance.
Homework\
Honors Physics A: Practice 13A #1-3, 13.2 Section Review
Physical Science B: Complete lab write up
Physical Science E: 15.3 Section Review
Physics F and G: Chapter 13 Review #21-23, 25, 26
Physical Science B investigated light in a series of three experiments. One experiment focused on reflectivity of light and few were surprised when dark colors and dull textures showed less reflectivity than lighter colors or shiny textures. The second experiment had students work with polarizing filters to document the transverse nature of light waves and to get an idea of how polarizing filters on cameras and polarizing sunglasses function to reduce glare. The final experiment targeted the inverse-square relationship associated with light intensity. As an observer moves away from a light source, the intensity drops quickly, as predicted by the formula: I = P/4πr2. We’ll discuss these labs in class tomorrow and move on to examining reflection of light in more depth.
Physical Science E began discussing behaviors of light, starting with reflection. When light meets an impenetrable boundary, it is either absorbed by the material or reflected off of the material. While there is no material that is a perfect absorber or reflector, most things lean heavily in one direction. We contrasted specular and diffuse reflection, used the law of reflection to predicted reflected angles based on angles on incidence and started to examine reflection by plane mirrors. We’ll add curved mirrors to the list tomorrow, along with color.
Physics F and G embarked on their study of sound by revisiting basic properties of longitudinal and mechanical waves and then applying some sound-specific vocabulary to these concepts. Hearing and vocalization in various species was examined and the use of ultrasonic waves by humans and animals was described. Tomorrow, we continue on with sound, concentrating on loudness and resonance.
Homework\
Honors Physics A: Practice 13A #1-3, 13.2 Section Review
Physical Science B: Complete lab write up
Physical Science E: 15.3 Section Review
Physics F and G: Chapter 13 Review #21-23, 25, 26
2/22/10
Back in the Saddle Again
Well, everyone seems to have made it back safe and sound, so the vacation week must have been a success…
Honors Physics jumped into the arena of sound today with an overview of the general properties of sound. Keep in mind all the vibrations and waves material from the previous chapter, and we’ll add some specificity to those basic concepts. We took time to review the idea of sound as a longitudinal, mechanical wave and added in our perception of sound frequency as pitch and the role of relative motion of source and observer in perception of frequency – the Doppler Effect. Tomorrow, sound intensity!
Physical Science B and E breached light territory today with a discussion of the particle nature of light, a review of the wave nature of light, the evidence for both and general properties of light (whether modeled as a particle or wave). B Block will conduct a series of lab investigations tomorrow with center around features and behaviors of light – reflectivity, polarization and intensity. E block will move into the reflection of light and the law of reflection.
Physics F and G reviewed waves and vibrations through an open-book quiz. Tomorrow, we start on sound as a specific example of a longitudinal, mechanical wave by focusing on basic properties of sound waves and our interpretation of sound frequency as pitch.
Homework
Honors Physics A: 13.1 Section Review
Physical Science B: Read lab protocol sheet and complete the 15.2 Section Review
Physical Science E: 15.2 Section Review
Physics F and G: 13.1 Section Review, p. 507 #3,4,5,8
Honors Physics jumped into the arena of sound today with an overview of the general properties of sound. Keep in mind all the vibrations and waves material from the previous chapter, and we’ll add some specificity to those basic concepts. We took time to review the idea of sound as a longitudinal, mechanical wave and added in our perception of sound frequency as pitch and the role of relative motion of source and observer in perception of frequency – the Doppler Effect. Tomorrow, sound intensity!
Physical Science B and E breached light territory today with a discussion of the particle nature of light, a review of the wave nature of light, the evidence for both and general properties of light (whether modeled as a particle or wave). B Block will conduct a series of lab investigations tomorrow with center around features and behaviors of light – reflectivity, polarization and intensity. E block will move into the reflection of light and the law of reflection.
Physics F and G reviewed waves and vibrations through an open-book quiz. Tomorrow, we start on sound as a specific example of a longitudinal, mechanical wave by focusing on basic properties of sound waves and our interpretation of sound frequency as pitch.
Homework
Honors Physics A: 13.1 Section Review
Physical Science B: Read lab protocol sheet and complete the 15.2 Section Review
Physical Science E: 15.2 Section Review
Physics F and G: 13.1 Section Review, p. 507 #3,4,5,8
2/20/10
2/16/10
2/15/10
2/12/10
Fleeing the Scene
Honors Physics discussed their wave interaction homework and held onto it as a resource for their open-book quiz. In fact, we made this a “free-for-all” quiz, where the only resource that was out of bounds was yours truly. So, students worked cooperatively to discuss the questions and debate the answers. A good time was had by all…
Physical Science B went over their wave exams and then attention was then turned to previewing the light unit that we’ll start on our return from break. Physical Science E discussed their lab and took their open-book sound quiz. We’ll go over this on our return, as well as the wave exam and then jump headlong into a pool of light.
Physics F and G discussed their wave interaction homework and then previewed concepts for the sound unit that we’ll begin on our return. G block was pretty sparsely populated due to the Peer Mentor session that was rescheduled from the early release day.
Homework
Everyone: None
Have a great vacation!
Physical Science B went over their wave exams and then attention was then turned to previewing the light unit that we’ll start on our return from break. Physical Science E discussed their lab and took their open-book sound quiz. We’ll go over this on our return, as well as the wave exam and then jump headlong into a pool of light.
Physics F and G discussed their wave interaction homework and then previewed concepts for the sound unit that we’ll begin on our return. G block was pretty sparsely populated due to the Peer Mentor session that was rescheduled from the early release day.
Homework
Everyone: None
Have a great vacation!
2/11/10
Counting Down
Honors Physics spent time discussing wave interactions, both with matter and with other waves. Constructive and destructive interference were contrasted and combined with the concept of wave reflection to describe the formation of standing waves. We observed standing wave formation in class on a wave machine and saw that the predicted formation pattern held – only whole multiples of 1/2 wavelength would form standing waves on a string. In other words, unless you can get complete antinodes to fit perfectly on the length of vibrating medium, the standing wave won’t form. So, you can have 1 antinode, 2 antinodes, 3 antinodes, etc. but no partial combinations. We’ll pick this up again in more detail with the sound chapter when we examine how musical instruments function.
Physical Science B went over their sound review homework and then launched into their open-book quizzes on sound. The remaining 2/3 of the chapter focuses on light and we will spend a good bit of time looking at the nature of light, features of light, behaviors and uses of light.
Physical Science E conducted their lab investigation on sound. The speed of sound in air was measured and the affect of temperature on speed of mechanical waves was discussed. Students then got the chance to look at their voices on the computer, compare that with the wave pattern of a tuning fork and investigate how touch-tone phones use sound to transmit information. Tomorrow, we’ll go over the lab and sound review homework and students will take their open-book quiz on sound.
Physics F and G discussed the formation of standing waves and got to examine standing waves formed on a wave machine. The last bit of homework on wave interactions was discussed to tidy up loose ends. Tomorrow, refresher work on the vibrations and waves chapter and a preview of sound.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Chapter Review #37-45
Physical Science B: None
Physical Science E: Complete lab write up
Physics F and G: None
Physical Science B went over their sound review homework and then launched into their open-book quizzes on sound. The remaining 2/3 of the chapter focuses on light and we will spend a good bit of time looking at the nature of light, features of light, behaviors and uses of light.
Physical Science E conducted their lab investigation on sound. The speed of sound in air was measured and the affect of temperature on speed of mechanical waves was discussed. Students then got the chance to look at their voices on the computer, compare that with the wave pattern of a tuning fork and investigate how touch-tone phones use sound to transmit information. Tomorrow, we’ll go over the lab and sound review homework and students will take their open-book quiz on sound.
Physics F and G discussed the formation of standing waves and got to examine standing waves formed on a wave machine. The last bit of homework on wave interactions was discussed to tidy up loose ends. Tomorrow, refresher work on the vibrations and waves chapter and a preview of sound.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Chapter Review #37-45
Physical Science B: None
Physical Science E: Complete lab write up
Physics F and G: None
2/10/10
Yee Hah!
You know the day is going to go well when the early release is called even before school starts…
Honors Physics reviewed their homework for simple harmonic motion and then moved into a deeper discussion of basic wave characteristics. We will tread over this ground again and again over the coming chapters on sound and light, so make sure you have a firm grasp on the ideas now to make life easier then. Tomorrow, we will describe the relationship between energy and the amplitude of a wave and then move into wave interactions. The concentration will be on interference and reflection, since an understanding of these is required to study standing waves. In later chapters we’ll cover these in far more detail and add refraction and diffraction to the list.
Physical Science B completed their examination of sound with a discussion of ultrasound and sonar. The review material for sound that you were given today should be complete for homework, as we will go over them first thing in class tomorrow. After the review, an open-book quiz for sound and then on to light on Friday.
Physical Science E, and Physics F and G did not meet today due to the early release. Physical Science E – you will still have your lab block tomorrow. You’ll just have to pay more attention to the instructions since you did not get the protocol sheet today. We’ll go over the lab, the sound review material and have the open-book sound quiz on Friday. Physics F – sorry about losing your lab block. Tomorrow is short block again and the opportunity for the experiment has passed. There will still be plenty of labs this year, so don’t look so sad…Physics G will work on completing the graphing portion of yesterday’s lab in class tomorrow and will take time to discuss the lab in detail.
Homework:
Honors Physics A, Physics F and G: None
Physical Science B: Complete sound review sheet
Physical Science F: Have sound review sheet completed by Friday
Honors Physics reviewed their homework for simple harmonic motion and then moved into a deeper discussion of basic wave characteristics. We will tread over this ground again and again over the coming chapters on sound and light, so make sure you have a firm grasp on the ideas now to make life easier then. Tomorrow, we will describe the relationship between energy and the amplitude of a wave and then move into wave interactions. The concentration will be on interference and reflection, since an understanding of these is required to study standing waves. In later chapters we’ll cover these in far more detail and add refraction and diffraction to the list.
Physical Science B completed their examination of sound with a discussion of ultrasound and sonar. The review material for sound that you were given today should be complete for homework, as we will go over them first thing in class tomorrow. After the review, an open-book quiz for sound and then on to light on Friday.
Physical Science E, and Physics F and G did not meet today due to the early release. Physical Science E – you will still have your lab block tomorrow. You’ll just have to pay more attention to the instructions since you did not get the protocol sheet today. We’ll go over the lab, the sound review material and have the open-book sound quiz on Friday. Physics F – sorry about losing your lab block. Tomorrow is short block again and the opportunity for the experiment has passed. There will still be plenty of labs this year, so don’t look so sad…Physics G will work on completing the graphing portion of yesterday’s lab in class tomorrow and will take time to discuss the lab in detail.
Homework:
Honors Physics A, Physics F and G: None
Physical Science B: Complete sound review sheet
Physical Science F: Have sound review sheet completed by Friday
2/9/10
In Anticipation
Depending on whom you listen to, we are going to be missed by tomorrow's snow, get hit starting at noon, get hit starting in the evening, get 4", get 8"...who knows. But I hooked the barometer probe up to one of the laptops and set it to collect the atmospheric pressure once a minute for the next 48 hours. It will be interesting to correlate the pressure values with the weather over that time. Right now it is clear and bright...
Honors Physics discussed yesterday’s lab investigation for simple harmonic motion of a mass-spring system. Looking over the data, seems like people found the relationships that we would predict – frequency of oscillation was independent of amplitude, but did vary with mass. If we had tried the experiment using the same masses, but with a different spring, we would predict a different frequency. Oscillation of a mass-spring system depends on mass and the spring constant of the spring. For a pendulum system, period/frequency varies based on pendulum length and the value for acceleration due to gravity. Folks did a nice job with the math portion of the lab and the extensions. We added a bit of flesh to this topic in class today with a discussion of the measurements associated with simple harmonic motion and then began an exploration of the wave formations produced by oscillating systems.
Physical Science B concentrated on musical instruments and the function of the ear in today’s class. The association of standing waves with musical instruments and harmonic production was discussed, as was the relationship between musical instruments and resonance. We then expanded our exploration of the phenomenon of resonance to discuss its effects on construction and engineering (generally, not good) and how it functioned in our hearing process. Students got the chance to take a proverbial walk through the ear, identify the main parts and describe their function in terms of receiving, transferring and processing sound waves. Tomorrow, we’ll look at specific applications of sound waves and do a bit of review for this sound material.
Physical Science E examined the uses of ultrasonic and infrasonic waves. Both are used for communication by different species and we have put ultrasound to work in medicine and maritime applications. Students got the chance to do a bit of review on sound topics and we’ll go over those review sheets in class tomorrow. After the review, you'll have an open-book quiz on sound - just sound. Thursday - a lab on the speed and properties of sound. Friday - starting in on light.
Physics G conducted a lab that examined the factors affecting the period of a pendulum system. Of the possibilities (length, mass, amplitude), it was found that only length had an appreciable effect. Thinking back to the equation for the period of a pendulum, its not so surprising. Neither mass nor amplitude makes an appearance in the equation, but length sure does. A lengthening of the pendulum should increase the period and decreasing the length should shorten the pendulum – a pattern of results that groups demonstrated. We’ll discuss the lab tomorrow and review basic properties of simple harmonic motion before we continue on with our introduction to wave formations. You'll have time in class tomorrow to finish up making the graphs and completing the lab extension component.
Physics F reviewed types of waves and properties of waves such as wavelength, amplitude, period, frequency and speed. Attention was then turned to behaviors or interactions of waves. Waves can interact with each other, since they can exist in the same place at the same time, and with matter. Constructive and destructive interference were contrasted and a discussion of reflection was added to ultimately facilitate the understanding of standing wave formation. We will get a lot more practice with these topics in the next unit on sound, so the cursory overview today is only the beginning…
Homework
Honors Physics A: Chapter Review items #10-13, 17, 19-22
Physical Science B: None
Physical Science E: Complete sound review worksheet
Physics F: Read lab protocol sheet and complete Chapter Review items #37-45 for Thursday
Physics G: None
Honors Physics discussed yesterday’s lab investigation for simple harmonic motion of a mass-spring system. Looking over the data, seems like people found the relationships that we would predict – frequency of oscillation was independent of amplitude, but did vary with mass. If we had tried the experiment using the same masses, but with a different spring, we would predict a different frequency. Oscillation of a mass-spring system depends on mass and the spring constant of the spring. For a pendulum system, period/frequency varies based on pendulum length and the value for acceleration due to gravity. Folks did a nice job with the math portion of the lab and the extensions. We added a bit of flesh to this topic in class today with a discussion of the measurements associated with simple harmonic motion and then began an exploration of the wave formations produced by oscillating systems.
Physical Science B concentrated on musical instruments and the function of the ear in today’s class. The association of standing waves with musical instruments and harmonic production was discussed, as was the relationship between musical instruments and resonance. We then expanded our exploration of the phenomenon of resonance to discuss its effects on construction and engineering (generally, not good) and how it functioned in our hearing process. Students got the chance to take a proverbial walk through the ear, identify the main parts and describe their function in terms of receiving, transferring and processing sound waves. Tomorrow, we’ll look at specific applications of sound waves and do a bit of review for this sound material.
Physical Science E examined the uses of ultrasonic and infrasonic waves. Both are used for communication by different species and we have put ultrasound to work in medicine and maritime applications. Students got the chance to do a bit of review on sound topics and we’ll go over those review sheets in class tomorrow. After the review, you'll have an open-book quiz on sound - just sound. Thursday - a lab on the speed and properties of sound. Friday - starting in on light.
Physics G conducted a lab that examined the factors affecting the period of a pendulum system. Of the possibilities (length, mass, amplitude), it was found that only length had an appreciable effect. Thinking back to the equation for the period of a pendulum, its not so surprising. Neither mass nor amplitude makes an appearance in the equation, but length sure does. A lengthening of the pendulum should increase the period and decreasing the length should shorten the pendulum – a pattern of results that groups demonstrated. We’ll discuss the lab tomorrow and review basic properties of simple harmonic motion before we continue on with our introduction to wave formations. You'll have time in class tomorrow to finish up making the graphs and completing the lab extension component.
Physics F reviewed types of waves and properties of waves such as wavelength, amplitude, period, frequency and speed. Attention was then turned to behaviors or interactions of waves. Waves can interact with each other, since they can exist in the same place at the same time, and with matter. Constructive and destructive interference were contrasted and a discussion of reflection was added to ultimately facilitate the understanding of standing wave formation. We will get a lot more practice with these topics in the next unit on sound, so the cursory overview today is only the beginning…
Homework
Honors Physics A: Chapter Review items #10-13, 17, 19-22
Physical Science B: None
Physical Science E: Complete sound review worksheet
Physics F: Read lab protocol sheet and complete Chapter Review items #37-45 for Thursday
Physics G: None
2/8/10
Laissez les Bon Temps Rouler!
As a Louisiana native, I take some pride in the Super Bowl victory yesterday by the Saints (although, growing up, we called them the “Aints”). I am pretty sure that pigs are flying somewhere and they are having snowball fights in Hades…
Honors Physics conducted a lab investigation on simple harmonic motion(SHM). Factors such as mass and amplitude were varied to see what effect they had (if any) on the oscillation of the mass-spring system. We also explored the idea of damping and how it affects simple harmonic motion. Consider your results in light of what we’ve discussed in class and what you’ve read in the book when writing up your synopsis tonight. Tomorrow, we’ll discuss the lab and continue on with our discussion of vibrations and their relation to wave formations.
Physical Science B went over Friday’s lab and then began a discussion of sound. Physical Science E continued on with their sound discussion, concentrating on musical instruments and their connection to standing waves. Both wind and string instruments rely no standing wave formations to produce the fundamental tones and harmonics that create the instrument’s characteristic sound. Violins sound different than trumpets, even when playing the same note, for a reason. Attention then turned to the structure and function of the ear – how do we get sound, transfer and discriminate sound. Tomorrow, we’ll look at uses of sound for medicine and navigation.
Physics F and G began to identify and compare types of wave formations. Make sure that you can distinguish mechanical/electromagnetic and transverse/longitudinal waves and recognize or provide examples of each. We described the basic features of waves and practiced calculating frequency, period and speed of a wave. Tomorrow, G Block will conduct a lab investigation that focuses on simple harmonic motion in pendulum systems. How do variables such as mass, length and amplitude affect the period for a pendulum? Stay tuned to find out…
Homework
Honors Physics A: Complete lab write up
Physical Science B and E: None
Physics F: Chapter Review #23-35
Physics G: Read lab protocol sheet for tomorrow and complete Chapter Review #23-35 for Wednesday
Honors Physics conducted a lab investigation on simple harmonic motion(SHM). Factors such as mass and amplitude were varied to see what effect they had (if any) on the oscillation of the mass-spring system. We also explored the idea of damping and how it affects simple harmonic motion. Consider your results in light of what we’ve discussed in class and what you’ve read in the book when writing up your synopsis tonight. Tomorrow, we’ll discuss the lab and continue on with our discussion of vibrations and their relation to wave formations.
Physical Science B went over Friday’s lab and then began a discussion of sound. Physical Science E continued on with their sound discussion, concentrating on musical instruments and their connection to standing waves. Both wind and string instruments rely no standing wave formations to produce the fundamental tones and harmonics that create the instrument’s characteristic sound. Violins sound different than trumpets, even when playing the same note, for a reason. Attention then turned to the structure and function of the ear – how do we get sound, transfer and discriminate sound. Tomorrow, we’ll look at uses of sound for medicine and navigation.
Physics F and G began to identify and compare types of wave formations. Make sure that you can distinguish mechanical/electromagnetic and transverse/longitudinal waves and recognize or provide examples of each. We described the basic features of waves and practiced calculating frequency, period and speed of a wave. Tomorrow, G Block will conduct a lab investigation that focuses on simple harmonic motion in pendulum systems. How do variables such as mass, length and amplitude affect the period for a pendulum? Stay tuned to find out…
Homework
Honors Physics A: Complete lab write up
Physical Science B and E: None
Physics F: Chapter Review #23-35
Physics G: Read lab protocol sheet for tomorrow and complete Chapter Review #23-35 for Wednesday
2/5/10
Phriday!
Honors Physics went over their exams and then jumped headlong into simple harmonic motion. We defined simple harmonic motion and used pendulum and mass-spring systems as examples to describe the motion and the changes in force, acceleration, velocity, potential energy and kinetic energy that were demonstrated. On Monday, you will conduct a lab investigation that will target the mathematical model of simple harmonic motion by tracking the motion of an oscillating mass-spring system. Variables such as displacement and mass will be varied to investigate how they affect the system’s motion.
Physical Science B investigated properties of sound in today’s lab activity. The speed of sound in air was ascertained by measuring the time for a reflected sound wave to return to the microphone. The lab was specific about asking you to note the temperature of the room - temperature of a material does affect the speed with which waves can travel and the value that you were given as a standard for comparison was based on room temperature. Anything significantly higher or lower than that and we could not use that as a comparison. The second lab allowed you to observed the sound produced by a pure-tone source (tuning fork) and a multiple-tone source (your voice). The clean sine traces we associate with waves were clearly visible for the tuning forks, but your voice did not produce such a nice pattern. Actually, if you accidentally struck the tuning forks hard enough, you might have gotten a mix of tones – the fundamental tone and an overtone. We’ll talk about this more in class on Monday. For the tone-dialer software – many people wonder about the distinct sound that each key of your phone dialing pad produces. Well, you are now qualified to discuss the tone pattern the phone company uses to produce each number’s sound. People will think you are very smart.
Physical Science E began their discussion of sound. Carry with you everything that you learned in the last chapter, as it will be needed for this chapter, as well. Sound, a longitudinal mechanical wave is so ubiquitous in our daily lives that we often take it for granted. This chapter allows you to add more vocabulary to your wave lexicon and examine specific aspects of sound waves such as loudness and the decibel scale, the production of sound by musical instruments, the function of the ear, the ability to hear and produce sounds by a variety of living creatures and the uses of ultrasound. Some good stuff, don’t you know…
Physics F and G explored how we quantitatively describe simple harmonic motion. The period, frequency and amplitude of mass-spring and pendulum systems were discussed and the calculations for these features were practiced. You will work with factors affecting the period of a pendulum in next week’s lab.
Homework
Honors Physics A: None
Physical Science B: Complete lab write up
Physical Science E: None
Physics F and G: None
Physical Science B investigated properties of sound in today’s lab activity. The speed of sound in air was ascertained by measuring the time for a reflected sound wave to return to the microphone. The lab was specific about asking you to note the temperature of the room - temperature of a material does affect the speed with which waves can travel and the value that you were given as a standard for comparison was based on room temperature. Anything significantly higher or lower than that and we could not use that as a comparison. The second lab allowed you to observed the sound produced by a pure-tone source (tuning fork) and a multiple-tone source (your voice). The clean sine traces we associate with waves were clearly visible for the tuning forks, but your voice did not produce such a nice pattern. Actually, if you accidentally struck the tuning forks hard enough, you might have gotten a mix of tones – the fundamental tone and an overtone. We’ll talk about this more in class on Monday. For the tone-dialer software – many people wonder about the distinct sound that each key of your phone dialing pad produces. Well, you are now qualified to discuss the tone pattern the phone company uses to produce each number’s sound. People will think you are very smart.
Physical Science E began their discussion of sound. Carry with you everything that you learned in the last chapter, as it will be needed for this chapter, as well. Sound, a longitudinal mechanical wave is so ubiquitous in our daily lives that we often take it for granted. This chapter allows you to add more vocabulary to your wave lexicon and examine specific aspects of sound waves such as loudness and the decibel scale, the production of sound by musical instruments, the function of the ear, the ability to hear and produce sounds by a variety of living creatures and the uses of ultrasound. Some good stuff, don’t you know…
Physics F and G explored how we quantitatively describe simple harmonic motion. The period, frequency and amplitude of mass-spring and pendulum systems were discussed and the calculations for these features were practiced. You will work with factors affecting the period of a pendulum in next week’s lab.
Homework
Honors Physics A: None
Physical Science B: Complete lab write up
Physical Science E: None
Physics F and G: None
2/4/10
A Day of Tests
Honors Physics endured their thermodynamics exam and will move on to an examination of basic wave properties tomorrow. We’ll hit the definition and features of simple harmonic motion and discuss mass-spring and pendulum systems as examples. The lab on Monday will allow you to model simple harmonic motion graphically and mathematically.
Physical Science B and E sat through their waves exam and, like always, I feel people went through the test too quickly. Whereas every exam does not need to take the entire period, too many people are finishing with copious time to spare – and the grades aren’t A’s. Use the time you are given wisely. Read questions carefully, then re-read them for clarity. Highlight important terms in the question or numerical information and units. Diagram a question, if necessary, to visualize the situation being described in words. Tomorrow, we’ll go over the exam and then begin on our investigation of sound. B block will conduct a lab investigation on the speed of sound and qualities of sound produced by various sources. E Block will discuss the general properties of sound and specific vocabulary that we apply to sound waves.
Physics F and G began their discussion of simple harmonic motion. The oscillation of an object or material around an equilibrium point, where the displacement is proportional to the restoring force of the system – SHM. Mass-spring systems and pendulums are the classical examples and you will get a chance to look at these systems in your lab investigations next week. This chapter introduces the relationship between vibrations and waves, outlines basic wave features and behaviors and introduces vocabulary that you will use throughout the next several chapters. Get a good foundation now and the next few weeks will be a lot easier.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Complete Practice 12A and the 12.1 Section Review
Physical Science B: Read lab protocol sheet and complete the 15.1 Section Review
Physical Science E: Complete the 15.1 Section Review
Physics F and G: Read 12.2 and complete Chapter Review items #10-18, 19, 22
Physical Science B and E sat through their waves exam and, like always, I feel people went through the test too quickly. Whereas every exam does not need to take the entire period, too many people are finishing with copious time to spare – and the grades aren’t A’s. Use the time you are given wisely. Read questions carefully, then re-read them for clarity. Highlight important terms in the question or numerical information and units. Diagram a question, if necessary, to visualize the situation being described in words. Tomorrow, we’ll go over the exam and then begin on our investigation of sound. B block will conduct a lab investigation on the speed of sound and qualities of sound produced by various sources. E Block will discuss the general properties of sound and specific vocabulary that we apply to sound waves.
Physics F and G began their discussion of simple harmonic motion. The oscillation of an object or material around an equilibrium point, where the displacement is proportional to the restoring force of the system – SHM. Mass-spring systems and pendulums are the classical examples and you will get a chance to look at these systems in your lab investigations next week. This chapter introduces the relationship between vibrations and waves, outlines basic wave features and behaviors and introduces vocabulary that you will use throughout the next several chapters. Get a good foundation now and the next few weeks will be a lot easier.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Complete Practice 12A and the 12.1 Section Review
Physical Science B: Read lab protocol sheet and complete the 15.1 Section Review
Physical Science E: Complete the 15.1 Section Review
Physics F and G: Read 12.2 and complete Chapter Review items #10-18, 19, 22
2/3/10
Review and Assessment
Honors Physics checked over their thermodynamic efficiency and entropy homework and then proceeded to walk through the chapter refreshing the brain on the focus material for this chapter. There is not a lot of math, but what little there is can be confusing due to sign conventions or identifying information in problems. Read problems carefully and double check your work when you set up your problems. Tomorrow – exam and Friday is wave day.
Physical Science B reviewed their MCAS waves practice packet. Folks seemed to do quite well, so that should be a good omen for the MCAS in June. Yesterday, we walked through the chapter in preparation for tomorrow’s exam and, today, made sure that any last minute questions were addressed. On Friday, we move into the area of sound by conducting two investigations – one on the speed of sound and the other on the properties of sound waves.
Physical Science E discussed yesterday’s lab, went over their practice tests and MCAS waves packets in preparation for tomorrow’s exam. Last minute questions and problems were tackled and remember that I’m usually available before school if you need any last-minute help. Starting Friday, we begin to concentrate on sound, its uses and properties.
Physics F and G suffered through their heat exam and will start with simple harmonic motion in class tomorrow (well, those who survive will…)
Homework
Honors Physics A, Physical Science B and E: Study for exam
Physics F and G: Read Section 12.1 and complete #1-9 of the Chapter Review
Physical Science B reviewed their MCAS waves practice packet. Folks seemed to do quite well, so that should be a good omen for the MCAS in June. Yesterday, we walked through the chapter in preparation for tomorrow’s exam and, today, made sure that any last minute questions were addressed. On Friday, we move into the area of sound by conducting two investigations – one on the speed of sound and the other on the properties of sound waves.
Physical Science E discussed yesterday’s lab, went over their practice tests and MCAS waves packets in preparation for tomorrow’s exam. Last minute questions and problems were tackled and remember that I’m usually available before school if you need any last-minute help. Starting Friday, we begin to concentrate on sound, its uses and properties.
Physics F and G suffered through their heat exam and will start with simple harmonic motion in class tomorrow (well, those who survive will…)
Homework
Honors Physics A, Physical Science B and E: Study for exam
Physics F and G: Read Section 12.1 and complete #1-9 of the Chapter Review
2/2/10
Finishing Up Chapters
Honors Physics spent time discussing the truly depressing topic of entropy. Entropy naturally increases for all processes and, even if you increase order in one area, another area will see a decrease in order in another part of the system (and that increase will be larger than the decrease you worked to achieve). Remember the mantra of thermodynamics – you can’t get ahead and you can’t break even. Tomorrow, we’ll review for Thursday’s exam and then it’s on to waves!
Physical Science B went over their practice tests and then we took time to go through the chapter highlighting and reviewing exam material. The packet of MCAS questions you were given should be completed for homework, and spend time tomorrow going over them as part of the exam review process. Also, bring along any specific questions you have about the chapter material so we can address them before Thursday’s exam.
Physical Science E went over their practice tests and then conducted a lab investigation on the formation and properties of standing waves. As we said in class, there are only certain permissible wavelengths for standing waves in a particular medium, so forming them on your ropes was not a quick and simple process. But, groups did manage to form standing waves with one, two and three antinodes eventually, calculate the wavelength and wave speed. We’ll discuss the lab further tomorrow and also go over your MCAS wave review packet as part of the review process for Thursday’s exam.
Physics F and G spent time reviewing for tomorrow’s exam on heat. We went through the chapter highlighting relevant exam material and F block used their lab investigation from yesterday as an example for many of the concepts we discussed. Starting Thursday – waves!
Homework
Honors Physics A: Practice 11C and Chapter Review items #32, 35-37
Physical Science B: Complete MCAS waves review packet
Physical Science E: Complete lab write up and MCAS waves review packet
Physics F and G: Study for heat exam
Physical Science B went over their practice tests and then we took time to go through the chapter highlighting and reviewing exam material. The packet of MCAS questions you were given should be completed for homework, and spend time tomorrow going over them as part of the exam review process. Also, bring along any specific questions you have about the chapter material so we can address them before Thursday’s exam.
Physical Science E went over their practice tests and then conducted a lab investigation on the formation and properties of standing waves. As we said in class, there are only certain permissible wavelengths for standing waves in a particular medium, so forming them on your ropes was not a quick and simple process. But, groups did manage to form standing waves with one, two and three antinodes eventually, calculate the wavelength and wave speed. We’ll discuss the lab further tomorrow and also go over your MCAS wave review packet as part of the review process for Thursday’s exam.
Physics F and G spent time reviewing for tomorrow’s exam on heat. We went through the chapter highlighting relevant exam material and F block used their lab investigation from yesterday as an example for many of the concepts we discussed. Starting Thursday – waves!
Homework
Honors Physics A: Practice 11C and Chapter Review items #32, 35-37
Physical Science B: Complete MCAS waves review packet
Physical Science E: Complete lab write up and MCAS waves review packet
Physics F and G: Study for heat exam
2/1/10
A Sparkling New Week
Honors Physics investigated the function and limitations of heat engines. Heat engines allow us to convert heat into usable work, but at a substantial cost of efficiency. We looked at how to calculate that efficiency and emphasized that the value was a theoretical maximum. Actual heat engine efficiencies are always lower. Tomorrow, we’ll tackle the idea of entropy and how it applies to all systems and the universe as a whole. Wednesday, exam review. Thursday, exam.
Physical Science B reviewed basics of wave interactions and then took that information to examine the phenomenon of standing waves. We made these wave formations in lab, but today put some flesh on the bone for the topic as a whole. You should be able to identify the parts of a standing wave, calculate the wavelength, describe how standing waves are formed and recognize that only certain wavelengths are permissible for a standing wave. The practice test I gave you in class will be the first thing we discuss tomorrow before launching in to a general review of the chapter. Wednesday – MCAS wave review. Thursday – exam.
Physical Science E followed the same agenda as for B Block, but will have their lab experience with standing waves tomorrow. You will also get your MCAS review packets and will have time to work on them when the lab is concluded. Wednesday is general review day and Thursday is the day of the exam.
Physics F investigated how calorimeters can be used to determine heat content of materials and compared the heat content of two fuel sources – paraffin and Sterno. By using the mass of the water in the calorimeter, the water’s final and initial temperatures and the specific heat of liquid water, the amount of heat energy delivered by the fuel source could be calculated (Q = mcΔt). We then compared this heat release to the amount of material burned to release the heat to determine the heat content per unit mass. The second part of the lab centered on the solid-liquid phase change and allowed students to determine the heat of fusion for water. How many joules of energy were required to change the temperature of a fixed mass of water. Measure that energy against the mass of ice melted (received the heat lost by the liquid water), to get the latent heat value for the ice (J/g). Tomorrow, we’ll finish working on the lab in class so that people can make sure that their calculations are on the right track and then start the review process for the exam.
Physics G completed the calculations and write up for their heat labs, and engaged in an overall discussion of the results. Make sure that you bring your questions to tomorrow for the exam review.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Ranking exercises worksheet
Physical Science B and E: Practice test for waves
Physics F: Complete lab write up and prepare questions for tomorrow’s exam review
Physics G: Complete lab write up and prepare questions for tomorrow’s exam review
Physical Science B reviewed basics of wave interactions and then took that information to examine the phenomenon of standing waves. We made these wave formations in lab, but today put some flesh on the bone for the topic as a whole. You should be able to identify the parts of a standing wave, calculate the wavelength, describe how standing waves are formed and recognize that only certain wavelengths are permissible for a standing wave. The practice test I gave you in class will be the first thing we discuss tomorrow before launching in to a general review of the chapter. Wednesday – MCAS wave review. Thursday – exam.
Physical Science E followed the same agenda as for B Block, but will have their lab experience with standing waves tomorrow. You will also get your MCAS review packets and will have time to work on them when the lab is concluded. Wednesday is general review day and Thursday is the day of the exam.
Physics F investigated how calorimeters can be used to determine heat content of materials and compared the heat content of two fuel sources – paraffin and Sterno. By using the mass of the water in the calorimeter, the water’s final and initial temperatures and the specific heat of liquid water, the amount of heat energy delivered by the fuel source could be calculated (Q = mcΔt). We then compared this heat release to the amount of material burned to release the heat to determine the heat content per unit mass. The second part of the lab centered on the solid-liquid phase change and allowed students to determine the heat of fusion for water. How many joules of energy were required to change the temperature of a fixed mass of water. Measure that energy against the mass of ice melted (received the heat lost by the liquid water), to get the latent heat value for the ice (J/g). Tomorrow, we’ll finish working on the lab in class so that people can make sure that their calculations are on the right track and then start the review process for the exam.
Physics G completed the calculations and write up for their heat labs, and engaged in an overall discussion of the results. Make sure that you bring your questions to tomorrow for the exam review.
Homework
Honors Physics A: Ranking exercises worksheet
Physical Science B and E: Practice test for waves
Physics F: Complete lab write up and prepare questions for tomorrow’s exam review
Physics G: Complete lab write up and prepare questions for tomorrow’s exam review
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