For Real, This Time

Yesterday was housekeeping, today was real work. B, C and E Blocks reviewed the scientific method and the basics of the metric system and checked the homework problems for metric conversions. As I said in class, the method you choose to perform unit conversions is up to you, as long as you do it correctly. You will find yourself often having to convert units (metric mostly, but some non-SI units, as well), so hammer that skill down now. Time was also taken to discuss the importance of models in physics and why their use is critical for analyzing complex systems. We will often make assumptions about a system that reduce it to a model and, surprisingly, still get respectable predictions of real-world events. Tomorrow (Tuesday for E Block), we tackle accuracy and precision, the use of scientific notation and significant figures and the value of checking answers for dimensional consistency.

F Block conducted an introductory lab investigation to get them used to working with the Vernier probeware system. Equal increments of pennies were weighed and graphed to explore how Vernier presents real-time data and how the program performs mathematical data analysis. We modified the experiment a little by having groups test both pre-1982 pennies and post-1982 pennies and comparing the weights. Remember to follow the instructions for writing a lab synopsis and answer all questions/perform all calculations required in the lab handout. E Block will perform this lab tomorrow and F Block will take up today's lecture material in class.

1st Cat Picture of the Year

11-12 is On!

Starting the new year is always a bother for both teachers and students, but hey... can't do anything about it so buck up and just get it done. This week is very short, but that doesn't mean we're going to be slacking. We'll be attacking Chapter 1, which introduces folks to the identity of physics and some of the fundamental skills you'll need throughout the year. Take time this week and weekend to make sure you have a good calculator to use - you WILL need it and the faster you get used to using it, the happier you will be. As for lab, we'll be working through an activity that will allow people to learn the Vernier system and get a feel for how the lab program will be conducted this year. And weigh pennies... Come on, you know playing with pennies is fun. Just admit it.

After this introductory chapter, we'll be moving directly into a study of motion. Distance/displacement, speed/velocity and acceleration are going to be the big players and there will be a set of formulas that you'll have to tackle to analyze the motion of objects. Get familiar with them - they are going to be your buddies for a good long, LONG, time in the course.