For Sherlock Fans

Today, the mini-episode Many Happy Returns aired and it's a wonderful thing and only slightly spoilery...


Also, on the PBS site is Unlocking Sherlock, which is an interesting background video with Gatiss, Moffat and the cast of the show (airs on TV on Jan. 19)...

Remember, in the US, the first episode of Season 3 of Sherlock airs on January 19, after Downton Abbey on PBS. It airs on January 1 on BBC 1, so expect me to be a happy person when we get back to school (it pays to be a tech head sometimes...)

Vacation!

We actually made it in one piece!

B Block completed their lab on levers and most groups also completed their calculations and questions. For the rest, they won't be due until the Tuesday we get back, so you don't have to work in your lab over break if you don't want to do that. When we get back, we start with work, power, machines and energy.

Physics D, F and Honors Physics took their exams and are in line to start fluid dynamics when we return. As I mentioned in class, the wise person might want to check Edline over break. Nothing you have to do, mind you, but something you might want to do.

Have a nice vacation!

Closing in on Closing Time

I was out dead yesterday, so folks worked on completing labs, studying for tests or taking a peek forward to new things.

Intro Physics did the peeking ahead to work and simple machines and began an activity today looking at levers and the concept of mechanical advantage. Folks are looking at all three classes of levers and calculating ideal and actual mechanical advantage for three configurations of each. The lab will finish tomorrow and this is where we'll pick up when we return from break.

Physics D, F and Honors Physics reviewed for tomorrow's exam. We went through the material page by page, highlighting what is and is not fair game for the test and answered questions about the concepts and the math. I'm available before school tomorrow for any last minute issues, so stop in if you need help. When we get back, we start in on forces in fluids.

Centripetal Force and Torque

Physics D and F both worked on lab investigations during their class periods. Physics D used the long block to examine the relationship between centripetal force, tangential speed and orbital radius and Physics F took on the topic of levers. Physics D will get to work with levers tomorrow to round out the unit for circular motion and gravity. We all review on Wednesday and have our exam on Thursday.

Honors Physics went over their rotational dynamics lab and then turned attention to the homework problems for this part of the unit. That took longer than expected, so we'll have to double-up tomorrow and hit both machines and gravity if we want to have review time on Wednesday for Thursday's exam.

Intro Physics reviewed their practice MCAS open response items for force and momentum, then had a focused review for tomorrow's exam on momentum. We'll start with some lab work for our next unit on Wednesday, as we move forward to work and energy.

Motion and Machines

Honors Physics conducted a lab investigation that centered on rotational motion. We looked at torque, angular acceleration and moment inertia for a single spinning disc, two spinning discs stacked together and a lightweight rod with widely-spaced weights. Students measured the angular acceleration for each of these situations for gradually increasing amounts of torque and on Monday, we'll go over the results and what we can draw from them. Then we move on to simple machines for the rest of the period, taking on gravity on Tuesday, review on Wednesday and our exam on Thursday.

Physics D finished their discussion of torque with a look at net torque and the sign of torque and then turned attention to simple machines, which is where Physics F also picked up after their discussion of yesterday's centripetal force lab. We listed and described the six simple machines and discussed how machines manipulate force in either work or torque. We contrasted actual and ideal mechanical advantage, then discussed the concept of efficiency and explained why it is always less than 100%. On Monday, D Block works on their centripetal force lab and F Block conducts an investigation centered on levers. Tuesday is D Block's lever lab, while D Block gets some problem-solving practice with machines. Wednesday is review day and Thursday is your exam.

Intro Physics reviewed their conservation of momentum problems, then had some practice with MCAS items for force and momentum. Folks worked on the multiple choice in class, which we went over before the bell, and have the open-response for homework. We'll go over those on Monday as part of our review for Tuesday's exam.

Things Spinning

Physics F conducted a lab investigation centered around centripetal force, tangential speed and orbital radius. Students varied radii and measured the tangential speed of a rotating body, given a specific (yet varying per trial) centripetal force. It was seen that the greater the centripetal force, for a given radius, the larger the speed needed to maintain it and a larger radius required a greater speed to maintain for a specific centripetal force than a small one. We'll discuss the lab tomorrow, before reviewing our work on torque and moving on to simple machines.

Physics D worked on torque today, by defining torque and looking at how manipulating the variables of lever arm and angle of applied force impacted the toque a force delivered. We practiced working with the torque formula and, tomorrow, we'll add the direction of torque and net torque to our toolbag. Then, it's on to simple machines.

Honors Physics reviewed their homework for rotational equilibrium, then turned attention to odds and ends for rotational dynamics. We looked at Newton's 2^nd law for rotating systems, momentum and its conservation and kinetic energy/conservation of mechanical energy. For the formulas, they are easy to work with from the standpoint that all you have to do is replace the variable in the linear form with its angular analogue, but remember that moment of inertia has its own formula based on the shape of the object. Tomorrow's lab will allow you more practice working with these ideas, and we'll go over your homework problems on Monday.

Intro Physics took the period to practice working problems dealing with conservation of momentum. It is important to properly read through the problem to identify and organize information and use the basic conservation of momentum relationship in a way that is appropriate for the scenario of the problem. Tomorrow, we'll go over these problems and look specifically at how the MCAS approaches the topic of momentum.

Circular Motion

Physics D began their work with circular motion today with an overview of centripetal acceleration and centripetal force. We contrasted tangential and angular speed, then looked at how those different speeds were impacted by tangential and centripetal acceleration. Remember that tangential acceleration works on changing the speed of the motion and centripetal acceleration is involved with changing the direction. We then looked at centripetal acceleration and how many forces can do this job. Tomorrow, we take on the idea of gravity, a force can serve as a centripetal force. This is where Physics F picked up today. We looked at how Newton pulled together the pieces of the idea of gravity and the formula for Universal Gravitation. The homework tonight will allow you practice with this idea and tomorrow we'll jump over Kepler's Laws of Planetary Motion and take on the concept of torque.

Honors Physics concentrated on center of mass, moment of inertia and rotational equilibrium today. We defined center of mass and it paved our way for a discussion of moment of inertia - the resistance of an object to changes in rotation. We looked at how different shapes have different moments of inertia, with the general rule of thumb that the further an object's mass is away from the selected axis of rotation, the higher the moment of inertia and the harder it is for a torque to produce acceleration. We then looked at the two conditions of equilibrium and ended class at the point where we'd begin to look at problem solving, so that's where we'll pick up tomorrow.

Intro Physics took on the idea of the impulse-momentum theorem, using yesterday's lab to highlight our discussion. The impulse an object experiences (force x time) is equal to an object's change in momentum and we looked at how this principle applies to situations involving safety nets/airbags and follow-through in sports. For the same theoretical momentum change, the longer the duration of the situation, the smaller the force the object experiences and for a maximum momentum change, given a limited force, prolong the contact as much as possible. Tonight's homework gives you practice with the math of this concept and tomorrow we'll see how impulse and Newton's 3rd Law of Motion lead to a new concept - conservation of momentum.

Recovering from Exam Friday

Everyone but Physics D had an exam on Friday and today picked up with new material. Intro Physics jumped into momentum with an investigation targeting the impulse-momentum theorem. We looked at the forces applied to a cart by a stiff versus a loose elastic material and how the elongated time of force application reduced the overall size of the force. We'll talk about the lab tomorrow and use it to highlight our introductory discussion of momentum.

Physics D took their momentum exam today and Physics F began their work with circular motion. We introduced the concepts of tangential velocity, centripetal acceleration and centripetal force and discussed examples to highlight these ideas. We then examined the formulas for centripetal acceleration and force and we'll go over the homework problems for these concepts tomorrow in class before moving on to gravity. Honors Physics took a slightly different approach, since they had already covered those ideas, instead starting with the concept of torque. We looked at how lever arm, applied force and angle of applied force affect the amount of torque produced and discussed examples to highlight these ideas. We covered the concept of net torque and previewed how it will involve itself with angular acceleration. Tomorrow,we go over our torque homework, then turn attention to center of mass and moment of inertia.

Investigating Bernoulli and Impulse

Intro Physics worked on a series of activities to illustrate Bernoulli's Principle. The five activities demonstrated the effects of setting fluids in motion and the resulting unbalanced force that results causing a visible change in motion in matter sandwiched between the high- and low-pressure fluids. Tomorrow we'll discuss this lab, go over last night's homework, then review for Friday's exam.

Physics D reviewed their work with collisions then had a general review for Friday's exam. Tomorrow is a lab on the impulse-momentum theorem, which is the investigation Honors Physics worked on today. The lab clearly demonstrated the agreement between the impulse applied to an object and the resulting change in the object's momentum. We'll discuss this lab tomorrow as part of our general review for Friday's test.

Physics F held off discussing yesterday's lab until tomorrow, when it will be bundled with the general exam review. In class we looked at identifying types of collisions, the properties of elastic, perfectly inelastic and inelastic collisions and how to approach them with problem solving. We'll go over the homework tomorrow, also, as part of our exam review.

Rolling on with Momentum

Physics D and Honors Physics reviewed the concept of conservation of momentum, then turned attention towards elastic and perfectly inelastic collisions. We discussed the properties of these types of collisions and looked at how the perfectly inelastic did not conserve kinetic energy, but the elastic type did. Tomorrow, Physics D reviews for Friday's exam and Honors Physics conducts an investigation on the impulse-momentum theorem. This was the lab that Physics F performed today, to very good results. Using the force sensor and motion detector, students measured the impulse delivered on a cart and the cart's momentum change, seeing that the two values were in agreement. We tested different materials for applying impulse and how the nature of the time of the interaction influenced the force delivered. The balloon changed the cart's momentum slowly and the cart experienced a small force. The surgical tubing caused the momentum to change quickly and we saw an increased force because of it. Tomorrow, we'll discuss the lab, review our conservation of momentum homework from Monday and then turn attention to collisions.

Intro Physics reviewed their work on pressure at depth and buoyancy, then took a look at Bernoulli's Principle. When looking at fluids, speed is inversely related to pressure. Given the same fluids and depth, faster fluids have lower pressure than slower moving fluids. We looked at examples of this principle in action and will conduct a series of investigations tomorrow to see Bernoulli's Principle in action. Thursday, we review for Friday's exam...

Back to the Grindstone

Intro Physics, Physics D and Honors Physics continued to hone their problem-solving skills in class today. Intro Physics worked on problems dealing with the motion of objects if fluids, Physics D on conservation of momentum and Honors Physics also took on conservation of momentum, albeit at a more evil level, with all sorts of twists and turns thrown in. Tomorrow, Intro Physics moves to Bernoulli's Principle, which addresses fluids in motion and the pressure they experience. Physics D looks at elastic and perfectly inelastic collisions, as will Honors Physics. Exams on Friday for everyone!

Physics F were introduced to the idea of conservation of momentum and its relationship to Newton's Third Law of Motion. We linked impulse and momentum change to the law of conservation of momentum, then began to apply this law to different situations in problem solving. Tomorrow, a lab on the impulse-momentum theorem before turning attention to collisions. You also have an exam on Friday, so make sure to prepare accordingly.

Momentum

Physics D and F were introduced to the idea of momentum today, along with the impulse-momentum theorem. We looked at how mass and velocity were involved in momentum and how momentum could be impacted by impulse, the product of force and time. We discussed examples of the impulse-momentum theorem in real life, such as safety nets and follow-through in sports and practiced solving problems using this concept. Tomorrow, Physics F doesn't meet because of the half-day, but Physics D will begin on the idea of conservation of momentum.

Honors Physics reviewed the concepts of momentum and impulse and reviewed their impulse-momentum theorem homework. Attention then turned to conservation of momentum. In a closed system, the total momentum of all objects in the system is conserved. As they interact, some gain momentum, some lose, but the gains will always balance the losses. We discussed some examples of conservation of momentum and practiced solving problems using this concept. We'll go over these problems tomorrow and get a few more of a slightly more complex variety to pump up our skills.

Intro Physics conducted an investigation on Archimedes Principle and buoyancy. Three objects were evaluated for the buoyant forces acting on them and we compared that to the weight of the fluid displaced by the objects. Then, the experiment was repeated using saltwater instead of tap water and it was seen that the objects showed an apparent weight loss greater in the saltwater than the fresh. Tomorrow, we'll go over the results and spend time working on the buoyancy practice problems that were assigned yesterday.

Starting a Short Week

Physics D and F took their Chapter 5 exams and will start with the concept of momentum tomorrow, which is exactly the topic Honors Physics tackled today. Momentum, the product of mass and velocity, is changed when objects experience forces. However, the duration over which the force acts also plays a role in the momentum change. The product of force and time interval is called impulse and it is equal to the object's change of momentum. We examined examples of this relationship and how manipulating force and time influenced momentum change and factored into safety equipment such as air bags, and follow-through in sports. Tomorrow, we begin to take a look at conservation of momentum.

Intro Physics reviewed the basics of Archimedes Principle and worked through two sample problems as a class before turning attention to problems to work on individually. Keep an eye out for unit conversions and make sure to organize information very well when working on this problem set. Tomorrow, a lab on buoyancy and that might help you visualize the concepts for that problems set more easily. We'll go over the problems on Wednesday and review our lab as our last bit of info for this shortened week.

WooHoo!

The Day of the Doctor was BRILLIANT! AMAZING! STUPENDOUS! And, oh the end... let's say the cameo at the end meant a lot to me and others my age... If you didn't catch it on BBC America, try and catch a repeat - it is so worth it.

AND a new Sherlock trailer! We're getting close folks..

Countdown to Doctor Who!

If you don't know what tomorrow is, then I sort of pity you because it's the broadcast of Day of the Doctor! Doctor Who is 50 years old this year and there's been lots of good things going on, including last night's broadcast of An Adventure in Space and Time, Mark Gatiss's docudrama about the creation of the show back in 1963. It was amazing and will be on BBC America tonight for those who want to get a look at what goes into making a television program, especially one that has lasted 50 years. And Mark's husband, Ian Hallard makes a nice cameo, which is always fun to see. Here's the trailer for that:


Tomorrow is the Day of the Doctor on BBC America and that's going to be a lot of fun, since we are still not 100% certain as to which of the former Doctor's will be in the program. I know I'll be watching! Here's the trailer:

and the prequel mini-episode The Night of the Doctor
If you want to see which Doctor Who your personality best aligns with, try BBC America's Doctor Who Personality Quiz... It's probably not a surprise that I match up with the first Doctor, played by William Hartnell (and I'm absolutely thrilled):

Some people think you are crabby and difficult to get close to. They may have a point, but what they see as rudeness is just you being careful with the friends you pick.

You have incredibly high standards, but once someone has proven themselves to be worthy of your attention you’ll pull an entire planet apart for them. And rescue them in the event of a Dalek attack.

Also, woe betide anyone that thinks you are frail or weak. There’s a spark in your eyes that could become a raging fire.

Winding Down with Work

Physics D had their review for their work and energy exam, after reviewing specifically the topic of power. Tomorrow, we'll be working on a lab that has you investigate the properties of simple machines and how they manipulate the force and distance components of work. There should be time during lab, if necessary, for you to ask individual questions in preparation Monday's exam. Physics F conducted the lab investigation yesterday and we went over it at the start of class today. The lab material won't be on Monday's test (we'll save that for later when we discuss simple machines and torque), but our discussion about power will be. Remember that power is the rate at which work is done or energy is transformed and that broad definition means it can be approached in a variety of ways mathematically. We looked at the possible ways to calculate power associated with a situation and the problems you're working on tonight will give you practice using those techniques. Tomorrow, a review of Chapter 5 in preparation for Monday's exam.

Honors Physics conducted an investigation that focused on how inclined planes and simple/multiple pulleys manipulated force and distance to make work easier. Folks saw that as a machine multiplied effort force, it did so at the expense of distance and experienced a loss of useful energy. There is always a cost to using a machine, but since it makes work easier to do, we pay that cost gladly. The lab material won't be on tomorrow's exam, but do remember to have the lab packet completed by Monday.

Intro Physics finished their lab on density. Density, as you found, is independent of the size and shape of the object. Your graphs of mass vs. volume, documented a direct, linear relationship, the slope of which was the material's density. As you add mass, it needs more space and that relationship is fixed for solids and liquids. Gases is another story and we'll discuss that when we look at gases specifically. Finish up the calculations, questions, graphs and slope calculations for your lab tonight so we can discuss your results in detail tomorrow.

Short Day!

With parent-teacher conferences taking up half the day, Intro Physics didn't meet. You'll finish up your density lab tomorrow and start on your discussion of buoyancy.

Physics D took on the idea of power, the rate of work being done or energy being transformed. Make sure you are very aware that power does not equal the amount of work done or transformed, however, just how fast it is happening. We looked at mathematical methods for calculating work and worked on a variety of practice problems using these techniques. Tomorrow, we'll go over your homework for power and review for Monday's exam. Friday - a lab on inclined planes and pulleys, which Physics F worked on today. For each of those simple machines, mechanical advantage and efficiency was assessed and, for pulleys, we contrasted ideal mechanical advantage (IMA) with actual mechanical advantage (AMA). We'll go over this lab tomorrow before turning our attention to the topic of power.

Honors Physics reviewed their work with power, then looked at reviewing for Friday's exam. We walked through the chapter topic by topic and addressed any loose ends. Tomorrow is a lab on simple machines and if you have further questions for the exam, you should have time to ask them during lab.

Conservation of Energy

Physics D and F reviewed gravitational and elastic potential energy and rolled this information into conservation of energy. Energy in total is always conserved, but mechanical energy is only conserved in the absence of friction. If we assume friction is negligible, then we can assume mechanical energy is well-conserved and that can simply problem solving. We'll go over your problems tomorrow (D) before taking on power. F Block will be working on a lab focused on machines, where we'll examine work, mechancial advantage and efficiency.

Honors Physics reviewed their work with conservation of mechanical energy and moved onto power. Make sure you don't confuse power with work - power is the rate at which work is done or energy is converted. So, a more powerful machine does the same work as a less powerful machine, it just does it faster. The unit of the Watt (J/s) applies to the rate at which energy is transfomed or physical work is performed. Tomorrow is review for our exam on Friday and Thursday will be lab work on machines and their relationship to work.

Intro Physics reviewed their pressure with depth problems, then started an activity with density. Folks are looking at how mass and volume are related and make sure to pay attention to the volume measurements done with the ruler and the displacement method. That is going to come into play with our work with buoyant forces. We'll have a little more time with that tomorrow before talking about density and starting to dip toes into buoyancy.

Posted with Blogsy

Under Pressure

Intro Physics reviewed their pressure and hydraulics problems, then turned attention to pressure at depth, the focus of Friday's lab. We looked at the factors that influence the pressure in a column of fluid and why pressure increased as you descended the fluid column and decreased as you rose in that fluid. We looked at the formulas for gauge and absolute pressure and saw how the absolute pressure formula was actually the equation of the line we found in Friday's investigation. The practice problems you have for homework will let you work with this formula a bit more, so remember what you did with your Applications questions for your lab activity and match up the y, m, x, and b with their appropriate variables for our fluids. We'll go over these problems tomorrow and then work on an activity to gain some understanding of the concept of density.

Physics D and F reviewed work and the work-kinetic energy theorem before turning attention to potential energy. We will focus only on two types (gravitational and elastic potential energy) right now and add a few later in the year. Make sure you understand the variables associated with these energy types and how changes in these variables impact the quantity of the energy measured. Know the relationship between work and energy change (as for work and kinetic energy) and how to use the formulas to calculate values for potential energy of either type. Tomorrow, we look at conservation of energy, which is the last piece of the puzzle for you to have your lab write up ready for Friday.

Honors Physics reviewed potential energy, then turned attention to conservation of energy. We contrasted mechanical and non-mechanical energy, discussed why mechanical energy is not completely conserved (though total energy is always conserved) and looked at examples of problems involving conservation of energy. We'll go over those homework problems tomorrow before taking on the concept of power.

Work, Energy and Pressure

Intro Physics took another look at pressure today by investigating how pressure in a fluid changes with depth. We used gas pressure sensors to assess the pressure at different positions in a column of water and saw that in increased linearly as the depth grew larger. There were three different samples of water to test and you found a different slope for each sample. This was due to the different densities of of the water samples and we'll go into that in more depth on Monday. Also on Monday, try to have your pressure and hydraulics problems completed, but we'll take 5 minutes or so on Monday if you need to tidy up loose ends. We'll also discuss our lab and use it to highlight our discussion of fluid pressure and how it varies with depth or height.

Physics D and F spent time discussing kinetic energy and the work-kinetic energy theorem. We defined kinetic energy, examined the formula and then discussed how work done on an object affected the kinetic energy of an object. Positive work would increase velocity, so kinetic energy would rise. Negative work would decrease velocity, so kinetic energy would fall. We'll review this on Monday and then turn out attention to potential energy.

Honors Physics had the potential energy conversation today, after reviewing their work on the work-kinetic energy theorem. We looked at gravitational potential energy and elastic potential energy, which are lumped with kinetic energy as mechanical energy. Both are energy waiting to do work and involve the position of an object in respect to something. For gravitational potential energy, it is position relative to a defined point in Earth's gravitational field and for elastic potential energy, it is the relaxed length of the elastic material. We looked at the formulas for each energy type and we'll review our homework problems with these energy types on Monday before turning attention to conservation of energy.

Work, Energy and Forces

Physics D completed their lab investigation on energy and energy conversions and we'll pick up with our discussion of energy in class tomorrow. As we move through discussing energy forms and the conservation of energy, keep you lab investigation in mind and how our class discussion helps to explain your patter of results - there's the basis for your conclusion section.

Physics F discussed the topic of work in class today and began with defining 'work' in the scientific sense. We then looked at examples where forces are and are not doing work, how work is calculated and the difference between positive and negative work. Tomorrow, we'll start on our discussion of energy and how it and work are connected. We'll start with kinetic energy and the work-kinetic energy theorem, before moving to the energies of position - gravitational potential and elastic potential.

Honors Physics reviewed their homework for topics associated with work and then took on kinetic energy and the work-kinetic energy theorem. As the velocity of an object changes, that indicates acceleration, which further indicates a force acting on the object. With a force acting and the object covering a distance, we can assess the work done in the situation. As the velocity changes, so does the kinetic energy and the change of the object's kinetic energy will be equal to the work done on or by the object. A velocity decreases (-ΔKE)indicates negative work done in the situation and a velocity increase (+ΔKE) indicates positive work. We'll go over your homework problems tomorrow before taking on gravitational and elastic potential energies.

Intro Physics reviewed their homework questions and basics of pressure before looking in more depth at pressure and hydraulics. We talked about the mathematical strategies for solving hydraulics problems, then started to practice with pressure and hydraulics problems. Tomorrow's lab will look at pressure in a different light (how does fluid pressure vary with depth) and we'll return to these problems on Monday.

Long Weekend

Folks enjoyed a 4-day weekend, with the holiday and the professional-development day occupying Monday and Tuesday, but today was business as usual. Intro Physics reviewed their Forces and Newton's Laws of Motion exam and then moved to begin an examination of forces in fluids. We described how internal fluid pressure is generated, then looked at the basic pressure formula, which helped to differentiate the concepts of force and pressure, which many people mistake as being the same thing. We then discussed how pressure differences accounted for the motion of fluids and, at the end of class, began to take on Pascal's Principle and how it pertains to hydraulic devices. Tomorrow in class we'll review this material and get some practice working with pressure and hydraulics problems.

Physics D began their investigation of energy transformations and conservation of energy and Physics F finished that investigation during their short block. Physics D will finish tomorrow and F Block will move onto the idea of work.

Honors Physics reviewed their energy conservation lab, their Chapter 4 exam and then turned to the idea of work. We defined work, discussed examples where a force is and is not doing work on an object, described the concept of net work and how some forces generate positive work and others negative work and then looked at the work formula in preparation for tonight's homework. Tomorrow, we go over this homework as a review, then turn attention to kinetic energy and the work-kinetic energy theorem.

One Long Day

Lots of exams... lots and lots of exams...

Physics D, F and Honors Physics took their Chapter 4 exam today and, since F block was long, Physics F spent the second half of the period starting on a series of lab investigations on energy conversions and conservation of energy. A tossed ball continually converts energy between kinetic and gravitational potential forms, as the velocity and height vary and our graphs showed clearly that total energy remained constant during the ball's motion. Tomorrow, we'll look at kinetic and elastic potential energy for an oscillating spring and see if a similar pattern holds. Honors Physics will conduct both labs tomorrow and Physics D gets their chance next week.

Intro Physics reviewed for their forces and Newton's Laws of Motion exam. Next week, we move on to forces in fluids, taking a look at density, buoyancy and pressure at depth. That bit is not MCAS material, but since you're honors-level folks, you get to do lots of little extra things...

Facing Exams

Physics D, F and Honors Physics all reviewed for tomorrow's exam on forces. Make sure to review over your notes, textbook, homework, classwork, etc. to prepare. On Friday - Work and Energy!

Intro Physics discussed their practice problems from yesterday and then we moved on to Newton's 3^rd Law of Motion. Be very aware of what Newton-3 says (in an interaction, two forces are simultaneously generated that are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction) and what it doesn't say (what happens to the objects because of the forces). We discussed examples of Newton-3 and will review this, along with all of Newton's Laws of Motion tomorrow in preparation for Friday's exam. On Monday - Forces in Fluids!

Reviewing

We started reviewing ideas today in preparation for the exams at the end of the week. Honors Physics and Physics D worked additional problems involving the force of friction, net force, and acceleration. Students had to determine the values for the normal force and friction, in order to calculate net force and acceleration and Honors Physics, especially, had to work with kinematics to solve their problems. We'll go over any last bits of this tomorrow before starting our review for Thursday's exam. Physics F used their static and kinetic friction lab to highlight our discussion about friction. We looked at why static friction (maximum) is larger than kinetic friction and how the normal force and coefficient of friction play into friction calculations. We ended the class by working on a couple of problems involving friction and an object's motion and we'll go over those tomorrow before starting on our review for our exam. On Friday, all these folks start our next unit - Work and Energy.

Intro Physics discussed their lab on projectile motion and addressed any lingering questions about the calculations or assumptions we made to accomplish those calculations. We then started on a series of practice problems involving projectile motion, net force, free-fall motion, etc. as preparation for Friday's exam. Tomorrow we'll do some tying-up of loose ends before taking a look at Newton's 3^rd Law of Motion, the last bit of this chapter's information that's on Friday's exam. We'll save the momentum piece for it's own unit.

More Forces and More Motion

Intro Physics conducted a lab investigation centering on projectile motion. Students had to make relevant measurements and perform calculations to predict the impact point of a ball bearing rolled off of a table. Groups had to carefully organize data and remind themselves of the properties and assumptions associated with projectile motion for their work and success was had by all, in that all groups hit their target. Tomorrow, we'll discuss the lab and review our work with 2-dimensional motion and air resistance.

Physics D and Honors Physics worked with static and kinetic friction, defining the two types, reviewing our lab on the concept for emphasis, and working on calculations involving frictional forces. Physics F is a day behind, working today with weight and the normal force, hitting friction tomorrow. For Physics D/Honors Physics tomorrow will be more work with friction and a discussion about air resistance. For all, Wednesday is review day and Thursday is our exam. On Friday - Work and Energy!

Phryday!

Intro Physics continued with their discussion of free-fall motion with a look at the specific impact of air resistance on objects and how it contributed to the concept of terminal velocity. Remember that, without air resistance, all objects would experience an acceleration of -9.81 m/s², regardless of mass or size. It is the cumulative effect of air resistance (increases with increasing velocity) that ultimately grows to a size to balance the object's weight and cause the object to fall at constant speed. We then dipped our toes into the arena of projectile motion and will conduct an investigation on the motion of a horizontally-launched projectile on Monday. Expect a test on Forces (up to Newton's 3^rd Law of Motion) next Friday.

Physics D completed their static and kinetic friction lab today and Physics F/Honors Physics discussed that lab during their class periods. We used the lab to help highlight the concepts of weight and normal force and will take on friction formally on Monday. Remember that our exam on Chapter 4 is next Thursday and the lab write-ups are due on Friday.

A Day of Labwork

Physics D, F and Honors Physics all worked on their static and kinetic friction labs. Physics D and Honors Physics completed the lab and Physics D began their data collection/analysis and will complete it tomorrow. For Physics D and Honors Physics, we'll discuss the lab tomorrow and use it to help illustrate our in-depth discussion of friction (Physics D) and weight and the normal force (Honors Physics).

Intro Physics reviewed their work with Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation, then turned attention to weight and free-fall. We defined free-fall, discussed examples of motion that were and were not free-fall in nature, explained why all objects fall to earth with the same acceleration due to gravity and also the difference between mass and weight. Tomorrow, we'll get more into the arena of air resistance and dip our toes into 2-dimensional motion.

Short Wednesday

Today, only B and E Blocks met due to the early release. Intro Physics took the period to continue working on their universal gravitation problems. A lot of the issue I'm seeing with people's work centers around errors in transcription of data and calculator-use errors. Make sure you know how to use your calculator very well! You should have no difficulty working with scientific notation, order of operations or basic functions of any type. If you are still having problems, make sure you see me for help. Tomorrow, we'll go over these problems and take a deeper look at gravity and the concept of weight and free fall.

Honors Physics began a lab investigation for static and kinetic friction. We discussed these two types of friction before beginning and students started to collect data, which will continue during tomorrow's class. We will compare static friction (maximum) with kinetic friction and discuss why F_s,max is always greater than F_k and the meaning of the coefficient of friction during our lab discussion on Friday.

Back with Forces

Folks worked on their own yesterday since I was out, but we were back on track today with our work with forces and motion. Intro Physics reviewed their work with Newton's 2nd Law of Motion and then turned attention to gravity. We described gravity as a field force of attraction between matter and the two factors (mass and distance) that affected its magnitude. We then took a look at Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation and began working problems focused on this law, which we'll keep on practicing tomorrow.

Physics D and Honors Physics reviewed Newton's 2nd Law of Motion, then turned attention to Newton's 3rd Law. We discussed the full suite of implications associated with this law and what it meant and didn't mean for objects. Physics D then spent time looking at weight and the normal force and practiced calculating the normal force for objects in a variety of situations. Physics E will get to that on Friday because they are going to be involved lab work for static and kinetic friction for the next two days.

Physics F worked with static and kinetic friction in lab today. We first defined friction and it's two varieties, then conducted experiments to measure maximum static friction and kinetic friction acting on a block. Some groups still need to finish data collection and others need to work through data analysis, so we'll continue with our lab when we next meet, which will be Thursday due to tomorrow's half-day.

Forces and Motion

Intro Physics worked on two lab investigations that let folks observe the effects of air resistance on the motion of falling objects and how the object's mass impacted the terminal velocity it experienced. We saw that our picket fence fell with an acceleration very close to the accepted value for g (-9.81 m/s²), but the coffee filters didn't even come close. The acrylic picket fence was smooth, presented a small profile to the air as it fell and was heavy for its size. The coffee filters were lightweight, rough and presented a large profile to the air, so they were far more impacted by air resistance. However, it could be seen that as we nestled more filters together, the terminal velocity increased. We'll discuss our investigations in class tomorrow, and have more time to work on our Newton's 2^nd Law of Motion problems.

Physics D, E and F finished up their work with net force and free-body diagrams and then moved to Newton's 1^st Law of Motion and the concept of inertia. We linked net force to inertia and discussed the motion of an object experiencing a zero and non-zero net force. For D and E, we spent time with the concept of equilibrium, where an object experiences zero net force, but F block didn't quite get there and will hit it tomorrow. For all, Newton's 2^nd Law of Motion is on tomorrow's calendar and problems solving situations involving net force and acceleration. Expect to dredge up your kinematics skills!

Net Force

Intro Physics worked on a series of problems concerning force, net force, acceleration and kinematics. These problems were a step above the standard one-step F = ma offerings in the book and folks worked cooperatively to come up with strategies to attack the problems and find the solution. We'll work on these more tomorrow, so if there were items that gave you trouble, you'll have more time to work in class.

Physics D, F and E spent more time on free-body diagrams and net force. We move through progressively harder situations, seeking to calculate the net force acting on an object and most folks are at the point of working with objects on inclines. We'll tie up a few loose ends tomorrow and then begin to see how that net force impacts an object's motion, as we take on Newton's first and second laws of motion.

Forces

Everyone is fully on forces today with Introductory Physics moving on from the nature of forces to Newton's Laws of Motion. We looked at Newton-1 and Newton-2 in class today, so we got a conceptual and quantitative look at how forces impact matter and tomorrow we'll spend time working on problems that focus on Newton-2 and bring in our work with kinematics, as well.

Physics D worked on their Atwood's Machine lab and, tomorrow, will discuss that lab as part of our work with net force. Make sure you have your labs with you so you can take notes that might be useful for when go begin to script a conclusion for your lab write-up. Physics F and Honors Physics had that discussion today and we used their lab results from the previous day to illustrate the concepts associated with net force and acceleration. For all groups, we'll get more work with free-body diagrams and net force tomorrow in class before moving on formally to Newton's 1^st Law of Motion.

A Case of the Mondays

Friday was a test day for Physics D, E and F, with Intro Physics reviewing for their exam which occurred today. So, it was on the upperclassmen to carry on with new content and Physics D began with an overview of the nature of forces and the use of free-body diagrams to assess and represent forces acting on an object. We contrasted contact and field forces, related forces to acceleration, practiced drawing free-body diagrams for various situations, then used those diagrams to calculate the net force acting on an object. Don't lose sight of those vector skills from last chapter because, as you saw today, they're going to come in handy. Tomorrow is a lab investigation on forces and acceleration, and our work with free-body diagrams the the net force is going to come in handy.

That lab was on the plate for Physics F and Honors Physics today, with Honors Physics conducting it during their long block and Physics F finishing it during a short block, since the test Friday ate into the designated lab block. For all, Atwood's machine was constructed, with two main tests being run - (1)what happens when the total mass remains constant and mass difference between sides changes and (2)what happens when mass difference remains constant but the total mass of the system changes. We'll go over this lab tomorrow and talk about concepts relevant to analyzing the data and working on that final question - the single formula for acceleration in this system.

Pre-Test Jitters

Physics D, F and E all worked on exam review in class today. We quickly went over yesterday's material for relative motion, then walked page by page through the book, highlighting relevant information for tomorrow's exam before opening the floor for specific questions. On Monday, we start forces, which will tie in closely to the work with motion we've been navigating the past two chapters. Where are some videos for vectors and projectile motion that you might find helpful for your exam review (note: for the first video - textbook pages are for the older edition of the book,but I think you can figure things out pretty easily)...




Intro Physics reviewed their lab on static and kinetic friction before discussion the topic more fully in lecture. We defined each type of friction, discussed why F_s,max was always greater than F_k when the same surfaces are involved, factors affecting the amount of friction an object experiences, the sub-classes of kinetic friction (sliding, rolling, fluid) and why friction is both a helpful and problematic force. Tomorrow, full review for Monday's exam and then it's on to Newton's Laws of Motion on Tuesday.

LOOOOONG Weekend

After a 4-day weekend for students, we are back on track with motion. Physics D, F and E all reviewed projectile motion and began a study of relative motion in class today. Remember that for relative motion, we are taking a particular viewpoint (frame of reference) and describing motion in respect to it. Often, we use vector techniques to look at relative velocities or displacements, such as with the problems we worked in class. Tomorrow is review day for Friday's exam, so make sure to bring questions about vector operations (including non-perpendicular vectors), projectile motion (projectiles launched at an angle and horizontally-launched projectiles) and relative motion. On Monday, we start to look at forces!

Intro Physics completed their lab for static and kinetic friction. Folks still have some calculations and question-answering to do but the lab isn't due until next Wednesday, so you have time to get that done, along with the write up. We'll discuss static and kinetic friction tomorrow in class, using the lab data to illustrate our points and Friday is review day for the Chapter 10 test.

Those Pesky Projectiles

Physics D, F and Honors Physics worked with projectiles launched at an angle today and will continue on with that tomorrow. If you're not getting it to come together for you quite yet, just keep working at it and remember to ask me or a neighbor for help in class. There are lots of little places where you can go wrong and it doesn't take a large mistake to make a big difference in your final answer. For everyone, we're looking towards next Friday as your exam for this chapter, so let's make sure to hammer these skills down to prepare for that assessment.

Intro Physics lost over half the class due to Peer Mentoring. We had time to go over the homework and discuss tomorrow's lab, but not really dive into the new topic of friction. Therefore, on Wednesday, we'll use tomorrow's lab investigation on static and kinetic friction as a model for our conversation on the topic of friction, which is the last bit of new material in this chapter. Exam looks like it's going to be next Friday, so be prepared!

Projectiles Are Flying!

Physics D conducted an investigation about the motion of horizontally-launched projectiles. First, they had to predict an impact point and hit a target placed at that point, then they were given an impact distance and had to calculate and calibrate the launch velocity needed to hit that target. Folks did a great job and we'll review horizontal projectiles tomorrow before continuing to practice with projectiles launched at an angle. This was were F Block was today - working independently or in pairs/groups to work on problems involving projectiles launched at an angle. We'll pick up right where we left off tomorrow, but one thing I noticed is that people are having a hard time recognizing information given to them and information they calculate. Make sure to think carefully about what information the problem provide (use units to give you clues) and when you solve for a piece of information, label it appropriately with unit and variable so you don't forget what it is and how to use it.

Honors Physics reviewed their lab with horizontally-launched projectile and used that as a model for working problems with these types of projectiles. We reviewed the nature of projectiles and projectile motion and then took time to work problems in class involving this type of motion. Tomorrow, we add projectiles launched at an angle.

Intro Physics completed their discussion of circular motion, then turned to the nature of forces and their interaction with matter. We defined 'net' force and discussed the vector nature of forces, which allows us to calculate net force acting on an object. Tomorrow, we begin to look at a specific force - friction - and that will form the basis of our lab investigation for this particular unit of work.

Vectors Everywhere!

Physics D and F worked with projectiles launched at an angle today, with D doing some concntraed problem solving and F Block getting an overview of that type of projectile. For D, we built off yesterday's overview work and just focused on practice; for F, we built off of yesterdays lab with horizontal projectiles and added the twist that the initial velocity has two components. Tomorrow, everyone gets more practice with these before we take a look at relative motion.

Honors Physics worked on their horizontal projectile lab, predicting the impact point of a ball bearing after being launched off of a table. With basic data and calculations, students predicted that point and did a great job of hitting their target. Then the impact point was set and students had to calculate and implement the necessary launch velocity. Tomorrow, we'll review our work with non-perpendicular vectors and take on horizontal projectiles, using the lab as an example.

Introductory Physics reviewed their work with kinematics and graphing for motion and began to look at circular motion. We'll go into this more tomorrow, but today we defined circular motion and began with centripetal acceleration. We'll add centripetal force in tomorrow and look at examples of circular motion.

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Vectors and Motion

On Friday, Physics D and F discussed the properties of projectile motion and focused on horizontally-launched projectiles to start. With these, all of the initial is in the x-direction and that velocity remains constant, so long as we assume air resistance is negligible. There is, however, acceleration in the y-direction and that is acceleration due to gravity. We worked practice problems in class and a few were assigned for homework, they being where Physics D began their class today. We reviewed these problems, then took a look at projectiles launched at an angle. For those examples, the initial velocity has both an x- and a y-component and they must be determined before we go further. We will work practice with these tomorrow in class. Physics F conducted a lab investigation that centered on horizontally-launched projectiles. Students had to take data on launch velocity and vertical displacement to determine the impact point of a ball bearing launched off the table and had only one shot to hit the target. Then, a specific target distance was set and students had to determine and establish the necessary velocity for launch. We'll go over this lab tomorrow, along with our homework problems before moving on to projectiles launched at an angle. Here's a video for 2-dimensional motion and vectors that sums up working with non-perpendicular vectors, horizontally-launched projectiles and projectiles launched at an angle:


Honors Physics reviewed vector resolution and vector combination before turning attention to non-perpendicular vectors. For these, there are more steps towards the resultant, but the steps are basically vector resolution and vector combination, so it's an implementation of skills we've already worked on. We worked on practice problems in class and will review them on Wednesday. Tomorrow, a lab that uses the vector nature of 2-dimensional motion as we investigation the motion of a horizontally-launched projectile. The first section of the above video has a refresher on vector operations, so check it out if you need help with the homework problems.

Intro Physics took time to complete their kinematics practice problems and students received individual assistance with areas of trouble. Tomorrow, we move on with motion, with a look at circular motion and then we'll take on motion in free-fall.

Vectors!

Honors Physics completed their work with angular kinematics and, after a short quiz, had their first taste of vectors. We'll make sure that everyone has the vector operations skills up to snuff early on, because we'll need them for a lot of the work we'll do this year. Physics D and F have been working through that over the past few days and, today, finalized that with a review and extra measure of practice with non-perpendicular vectors. Tomorrow, these folks will move on to 2-dimensional motion and will look at working with projectile motion in their upcoming long blocks. Honors Physics is on that track, too, though we have to hack through the vector weeds beforehand...

Introductory Physics reviewed yesterday's lab investigation then moved to reviewing their acceleration homework problems. We looked at some common trouble spots, then took time to introduce the kinematics formulas, which are found on the MCAS formula sheet. Tomorrow, we'll get some practice working with these before turning attention, briefly, to circular motion.

Lots of Manic Motion

Intro Physics moved form their work on acceleration yesterday to a lab that focused on position-time and velocity-time graphs of accelerated and unaccelerated motion. Yesterday, we looked at graphs of accelerated motion and compared them to graphs we had studied of motion with constant velocity. Today's lab had students interpreting graphs and having to mimic the motion presented by the graphs by walking back and forth in front of a motion detector. We'll go over this lab tomorrow before reviewing our homework problems for acceleration. Then, it's a long hard look at the kinematics formulas!

Honors Physics concluded their small unit on angular kinematics with a discussion of tangential and centripetal acceleration. Remember that tangential acceleration is associated with a change of speed and centripetal acceleration is associated with the continuously-changing direction of circular motion. We looked at how these values can be convereted mathematically from one to the other and will go over the homework problems for this before taking a quiz on this material. Friday - it's vectors!

Physics D and F reviewed their work with vector resolution then moved on to working with non-perpendicular vectors. We practiced finding the resultant of non-perpendicular vectors in class and here's a video to remind you of the techniques as you work with the homework problem we started at the end of class...

Don't Mind Me

Just spreading the love...

A Case of the Mondays

Today found both Honors Physics and Physics D engaged in motion-based lab investigations. Honors Physics collected the last of the data and began preparing graphs for their circular motion experiment and Physics D conducted a lab on the 2-dimensional motion of a cart on a ramp. The cart demonstrated motion very similar to what we saw for a ball in free fall in our previous lab experiment, but this time, the acceleration came nowhere close to -9.81 m/s². However, as we increased ramp height, the acceleration began to climb and if we had actually approached vertical, we would have gotten values close to g. We'll talk about the vector nature of acceleration and forces tomorrow and refresh ourselves on the meaning of the shapes of the graphs we produced. Then, it's on to vector resolution.

Physics F looked at using the Pythagorean Theorem and the tangent function to combine perpendicular vectors. As long as the vectors in question form a right triangle, the Pythagorean Theorem can give us the magnitude of the resultant vector (hypotenuse of the triangle) and the tangent function provides direction. We practice working problems in class and hammered out how to choose the angle to evaluate and report for an answer. Tomorrow, we'll review this a bit and move on to vector resolution.

Intro Physics went over their velocity/displacement homework problems and, then, began to look at acceleration, the rate of change of velocity. We made sure the whole scope of the acceleration definition was explored and took on the interaction between velocity and acceleration in terms of signs. When they have the same sign, the object speeds up in the direction of the motion and when the signs are opposite the object slows down in the direction of motion. When you are at rest, but are subject to acceleration, you start from rest in the direction of the acceleration. When you are in motion, but subject to zero acceleration, you continue moving with constant velocity. We ended the period with a look at the formula and unit for acceleration and we'll practice with that in class tomorrow, with an eye, also, at velocity-time graphs for objects showing motion with constant acceleration.

Complicating Motion

Honors Physics took yesterday to introduce themselves to circular or rotational motion. We examined how to define displacement (as the portion of the circle swept out during the position change measured in radians) and used that displacement to set up for angular speed and acceleration. Today, we conducted a lab investigation where the cause of circular motion (centripetal force) was investigated. Students measured the tangential speed of a mass as it moved in circular motion with a given centripetal force and rotational radius. We varied the radius as one aspect of the experiment and the centripetal force (for constant radius) as a second aspect. We'll finish this lab up on Monday before looking for fully at angular kinematics.

Intro Physics took time yesterday to review their lab work for the Cart on the Ramp investigation, then turned attention to reviewing their Chapter 1 exams. We then jumped slightly into motion by discussing the importance of a frame of refrence when evaluating motion. Today, we picked up with specific descriptors of motion (distance/displacement; speed/velocity) and examined them from a conceptual and graphical standpoint. At the end of class students began to work on a series of practice problems for displacement and velocity and we will go over those on Monday. Remember your basic techniques for working with fractions and your algebra. When something is equal to a fraction, (v = Δx/t), cross multiply, then isolate the desired variable and solve.

Physics D reviewed the graphical method of working with vectors which was the focus of yesterday's work, then took on using the Pythagorean Theorem and the tangent function to streamline the analysis of perpendicular vectors. We discussed vector addition using these techniques and worked a few practice problems in class. On Tuesday, we'll look at vector resolution, which is breaking down a resultant into its x- and y-components and on Monday, we look at the 2-dimensional motion of a cart ascending and descending a ramp. Physics F began their introduction to vectors today, after reviewing their Cart on a Ramp lab that they worked on yesterday. We looked at the motion of our cart and compared/contrasted it with the motion of the ball tossed into the air that played a role in our previous lab investigation. The vector techniques we learn in this first part of Chapter 2 will allow for a deeper analysis of that type of situation, so we'll make sure to spend time learning how to combine and resolve vectors before we move on.

More Tests Than You Can Shake a Stick At!

Honors Physics, Physics D and F all enjoyed their Chapter 1-2 exams today and on Thursday move on to greener pastures. Honors Physics takes a brief stop in angular kinematics, Physics D begins work with vectors and Physics F works on a lab investigation monitoring the motion of a cart on a ramp. The graphs will be very familiar, but what we're looking for is going to be slightly different than for your ball-toss lab. It will tie in with the work on vectors and 2-dimensional motion that we're starting on Friday.

Introductory Physics completed their Cart on a Ramp lab, including the extensions that tested angle of incline on the cart's acceleration. The types of graphs you worked with (position-time, velocity-time, acceleration-time) are going to be studied in depth during the upcoming motion unit and we'll refer back to this lab to highlight elements of that discussion. Thursday, we'll go over the lab, discuss your first lab write-up to get a leg-up on writing the next one and, go over your Chapter 1 exams and, time permitting, address the Pre-Reading Questions you had for homework last night. Friday, we start with motion!

Test and Test Prep

Intro Physics took their Chapter 1 test today and return to their labwork tomorrow. We'll complete the Cart on a Ramp lab and may have time to go over today's exams, as well. If not, we'll go over the tests on Thursday, before we formally begin our work with motion.

Honors Physics, Physics D and F reviewed for their Chapters 1-2 exam. Physics D and F spent the first portion of class reviewing their free-fall homework and then all classes moved page by page through the chapters, highlighting the relevant information for the exam. On Thursday, Physics D and F will begin work with vectors and Honors Physics will do a quick bit of angular kinematics.

Free-Fall!

Physics D and F reviewed their work with the kinematics formulas and then turned those formulas towards analyzing objects experiencing free-fall motion. Free fall is any motion where the object is only acted upon by gravity, so no other forces are involved. We assume that air resistance is negligible (a decent assumption for some objects and a poor one for others) and realize that the object does not actually have to be falling to be in free-fall. A ball tossed straight up in the air is in free-fall, because the only force acting on it is gravity. We discussed problem-solving methods for free-fall motion and will go over the homework problems on Monday before beginning our review of Chapters 1 and 2 for Tuesday's test. Then, it's on to vectors!

Honors Physics reviewed their more in-depth kinematics problems and worked an extra in class as practice. The decision was made to push the test back one day to have Monday as a review day, so the test is now scheduled for Tuesday. On Thursday, we'll take a look at angular kinematics.

Intro Physics worked on a lab investigation centering on a cart moving on a ramp. Students examined position-time, velocity-time and acceleration-time graphs of the motion and used those graphs to explain the interplay of acceleration and velocity and determine the value for the cart's acceleration. We didn't finish the lab in class, so on Tuesday (Monday is Chapter 1 Exam day), we'll complete the investigation.

Kinematics

Intro Physics spent the period finalizing ideas for scientific figures, practicing implementing rules of significant figures in problem solving and reviewing for Monday's exam. We walked through the chapter page by page, highlighted important information and addressing areas of question. Tomorrow, a lab investigation that will open the door for our next unit of study - motion.

Honors Physics discussed their free-fall motion homework problems before receiving a set of slightly more challenging problems to work in in class. We'll go over those tomorrow before reviewing for Monday's exam. Physics D and F also worked on kinematics problems during the period and we attacked issues at an individual level, so folks could find ways to properly set up and solve these problems. Here's a quick video with an example of how to work through a typical kinematics problem:


Physics D and F have their Chapter 1-2 test on Tuesday, so make sure to look things over this weekend come with questions on Monday. We're discussion free-fall acceleration tomorrow, but Monday is a full-period review, so come prepared...

More Motion!

Physics F reviewed their work with acceleration and focused, today, on the kinematics formulas. We looked at the formulas, discussed how they were derived and worked several sample problems to illustrate the methods for extracting information from a word problem and choosing the right tools to generate a solution. Tomorrow is all-period practice with kinematics problems so that skills can be nailed down. We'll see these formulas all year and working with them quickly and easily will be a must.

Physics D will also be working on kinematics problems tomorrow, but after we go over today's lab on objects in free-fall. Notice, though, that one of the kinematics formulas we discussed yesterday was used in your investigations. The equations are valid for horizontal, vertical or 2-dimensional motion and we'll use them often for analyzing many types of situations. For your investigation, the graphs you produced for the tossed ball and dropped picket fence matched well with what we would predict for an accelerating object and it was clear that the acceleration had a constant value. We'll discuss the lab in detail tomorrow and provide some tips for your write-up which is due on Monday.

Honors Physics discussed their lab investigation from yesterday and used it as a reference for today's discussion of objects in free-fall. We defined free-fall as motion acted upon only by gravity and demonstrated why objects behave differently in free-fall because of the confounding effect of air resistance. We examined a sample problem that used the familiar kinematics formulas to evaluate motion of a basketball and more problems along those lines are on the homework list. We'll go over those tomorrow, before making a last practice round of our motion problems (expect some tougher ones), Friday is review day and Monday is exam day. Tuesday it's on to angular kinematics!

Intro Physics discussed their graphing and scientific notation homework, then worked on an activity that highlighted the concepts of accuracy and precision. It became clear that small errors in technique had big impacts on the accuracy of our volume readings and the precision of those readings was determined by the specific measuring tool we used. We then started our discussion on the use of significant figures to report precision. We'll finish that up first thing tomorrow, before having a general review of the chapter in preparation for Monday's exam.

Moving On With Motion

Intro Physics took time today to discuss scientific notation and how to perform calculations with values given in scientific notation. We worked though a number of problems, with each student investigating the quickest and most efficient way to work with scientific notation on their calculators. we also reviewed the general rules for estimating the power of an answer to give folks a small method of self-check when problem-solving. Tomorrow, we're on to accuracy, precision and significant figures. Review for the chapter is Thursday, lab on Friday and the Chapter 1 exam is on Monday. On Tuesday, it's on to motion!

Honors Physics conducted two lab investigations concerning free-fall motion. Graphs of the motion were analyzed to gain information about the motion and students began to pull together ideas about acceleration, displacement and velocity, as they pertain to an extended motion, such as a ball being tossed into the air and caught. The investigations also allowed for folks to experimentally determine the value for acceleration due to gravity, which we begin to discuss tomorrow in class.

Physics F took on the topic of acceleration today. Class began with a review of the lab and a evaluation of e last set of lab write-ups. We went over high and low points of those papers and students were given advice how to remedy those issues for the next lab synopses that are due Monday. We tied the lab work into our acceleration discussion and used the graphs from the lab to highlight the main ideas. Tomorrow, we look at the kinematics formulas, which was how Physics D spent their time. We discussed the formulas, in general, then walked through a sample problem as a class before folks got to try one on their own. Tomorrow, nothing but problem-solving practice.

Blogger is a Foul Beast

I still can't access my blog using any form of actual login besides this app, so I guess it'll have to do until Google figures itself out...

Physics and Honors Physics have been working through 1-dimensional motion. We defined the basic descriptors of motion, discussed the importance of a frame of reference, contrasted vector and scalar quantities and started on the mathematics of motion. The lab work for this unit centers on free-fall motion and interpreting graphs of motion and Physics F started with that today. We looked at the motion of a ball tossed into the air, analyzing position-time and velocity-time graphs of the motion. We then used a thin, heavy object to determine acceleration do to gravity. Tomorrow, we'll discuss the lab investigations and think about material for the lab write-up.

Intro Physics reviewed the graphing exercise and the took a deeper look into graph creation and interpretation. We are going to make and evaluate a large number of graphs this year, so we will see working on getting those skills hammered down as we move along. Tomorrow, we begin our work with scientific notation and be prepared to work quickly and accurately with scientific notation on your calculators.

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Back Online (sort of)

Well, I guess I'm doing this through an app on my iPad for now since Blogger has, apparently, messed up a lot of folks.

Today was a big day for unit conversation for everyone. All classes reviewed the basics of unit conversion and had more practice with simple and more complex problem types. Some classes are getting more practice tomorrow, but others are moving on to significant figures, accuracy and precision. Intro Physics will be conducting their first lab investigation, which will let students learn how to use the Vernier probeware system and the investigate the relationship between weight and quantity for pennies.

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Phryday!

Despite a fire drill this morning, all went swimmingly to end our first week back. Intro Physics discussed the use of models in science and began to dig into the specifics of the scientific method. D Block Physics completed their discussion of models and hypothesis and started to dip toes into the area of measurement. The SI system was reviewed and we looked at both the importance of and the techniques for unit conversion. Remember, I don't necessarily care the method you use for unit conversion so long as it works for you. However, on a test, I need to see your work so that I can assign partial credit for a problem if you get the wrong answer. On Monday, we conduct our first lab investigation centering on the use of the Vernier system and then the linear relationship between weight and quantity for a manufactured object (pennies).

This was the lab Honors Physics worked on today, which obtained excellent results. We walked step-by-step through the setup and take down process for the Vernier equipment, highlighted problems and pitfalls, and then students undertook their investigation in their groups, demonstrating that weight per penny is a very constant property. We ended the period by reviewing the lab data and discussing ideas for the write-up that's due on Tuesday. For F Block Physics we addressed any final questions about the lab they worked on yesterday and then launched into Chapter 1. We looked at the scope of physics, the use of models in science and how the scientific method involves models in it's processes. On Monday, we start to look at the SI system and dimensional analysis.

The Basics of Science

Today found Intro Physics, Physics D and Honors Physics working through the beginning of Chapter 1, which in every science textbook in the world deals with things like the scientific method, the metric system, measurements, what that particular science is about, etc. We hit the nature of physics, the scientific method, pure vs. applied science, science vs. technology and started, for some, discussing the idea of models. Tomorrow we finish up with his and dig into the metric system.

Physics F conducted an investigation that allowed students to familiarize themselves with the Vernier equipment and investigate the linear relationship between weight and quantity for a man-made object (pennies). We walked through the setup and take down of the lab apparatus plus the specifics of the software, before students were allowed to jump into their investigation. They used a force sensor to measure the weight of groups of pennies (pre- and post-1982) and examined the relationship, which was very linear. Students then used this information to work problems associated with converting dollar amounts to weight and weights to dollar amounts, as would be handled by the treasury and banks. Tomorrow, E Block works on this lab and F Block gets its introduction to Chapter 1.

Day 1!

Day 1 for everyone today and, unsurprisingly, Day 1 business was on every class's agenda. We went over the syllabus, homework and laboratory guidelines, curriculum frameworks (for the Introductory Physics group), distributed books and discussed general expectations and content for the courses. Tomorrow, we launch into an introductory unit that will focus on the metric system, use of models in science, scientific notation and significant figures, graphing and unit conversion. Basically, reminding ourselves of some basic skills that one needs to conduct any form of science. The exception will be F Block, who will undertake their first lab investigation, centering around the use of the Vernier probeware system and how it functions to collect, present and analyze real-time data.

Welcome back everyone!

Still Wavin'

We are still working with waves, with Physics A and B concentrating on sound, Intro Physics getting the basics of vibrations and waves and Honors Physics working through light and reflection.

Physics A and B took their vibrations and waves exams yesterday, after a bit of lab work on wave properties and some review time. Tomorrow, we start in on sound!

Intro Physics discussed further characteristics of waves such as wave speed and looked at factors that affect the speed of both electromagnetic and mechanical waves. Be very sure you are aware how density of the medium impacts the speed of both EM and mechanical waves and that you can use the wave speed formula (and distance/time) to calculate the speed of a wave. Tomorrow, we start on wave interactions.

Honors Physics leaped from work with mirrors to color and polarization. We contrasted the additive and subtractive color systems, defined polarization and looked at methods of producing polarized light. Our little activity with the polarizing filters will be familiar when we do Monday's lab work with light intensity and polarization. Tomorrow's lab work centers around spherical mirrors and image formation.

In Waves

Physics A completed the new material for the sound chapter, looking at wave interactions. We contrasted constructive and destructive interference, looked at the phenomenon of reflection and the formation of standing waves. We'll work on an activity tomorrow that will let you model many of these ideas and see wave formation in action. Physics B worked on this activity today, making transverse and longitudinal waves on a spring and using a string to produce standing waves. Tomorrow for B will be a review for Thursday's exam, so come ready with questions.

Intro Physics began their work on waves. We defined waves, contrasted mechanical and electromagnetic waves, described simple harmonic motion and focused attention on the fact that waves move energy place to place. Tomorrow, we look at transverse and longitudinal waves and talk about physical features of waves.

Honors Physics began a study of light and reflection. We describe EM waves, looked at the EM spectrum and then jumped into reflection and image formation by plane mirrors. Remember that they only make virtual images with a magnification of 1 and where image and object distance are equal. We'll see how things change when the give the mirror a curve tomorrow.

The Sun!

How nice to have a little sunshine today after the yuck of the weekend and week...

Physics A discussed physical descriptors of vibrations, such as amplitude, frequency and period. The formulas for calculating the period of a mass-spring and pendulum system were reviewed and tied into our recent lab unit. Physics B reviewed the last of those labs in class today and then began to examine the waves that vibrations were responsible for producing. We put a basic definition to waves, contrasted mechanical/electromagnetic and transverse/longitudinal waves and added a few additional descriptors such as wavelength and wave speed. Tomorrow, we take a look at wave interactions, while A Block takes on this material instead.

Intro Physics and Honors Physics reviewed for tomorrow's exams. We walked through the material and addressed any last-minute concerns about the topics. On Monday, Intro Physics starts waves and Honors Physics takes on light, color and reflection.

Good Vibrations

Most folks were working with vibrations and waves today. The only ones that weren't were the Intro Physics people who continued their discussion of heat. We reviewed the homework essays about clothing and season, then worked some practice problems associated with Friday's exam. Tomorrow, we'll review some more for that exam and then Monday starts vibrations and waves.

Physics A put a definition and description to simple harmonic motion and talked about how both mass-spring systems and pendulums demonstrate that type of motion. We looked at the nature of the restoring force for each and used information from our last two labs to highlight this discussion. Physics B completed their second lab of that series which, for them, allowed folks to see how class topics played out in a real system. Tomorrow we continue with descriptors of SHM.

Honors Physics used the long block to investigate sound. Using tuning forks, the human voice and a tone dialer, wave patterns of pure tones and harmonics were viewed and analyzed. Tomorrow, review for Friday's sound exam and then it's on to light!

And We're Back!

I was out sick yesterday, so the start of our return was delayed one day, but I don't anything had much to complain about for that...

A and B blocks worked on a lab that examined the sine curve traced out by an object oscillating with simple harmonic motion. We used a mass-spring system and saw how the motion was very nicely described by a sine function. We also took time to examine damped harmonic motion, where friction is a significant factor in the oscillation. A Block finished the lab and B Block will finish tomorrow. Some ideas for your conclusion:

1. What is simple harmonic motion? Did the mass-spring system demonstrate this type of motion? What evidence can you use to support your argument?
2. Did amplitude of oscillation impact the period of the oscillation? Should it or shouldn't it? What evidence can you use to support your argument?
3. What is damped harmonic motion? Does this violate the law of conservation of energy? Explain your answer.

Intro Physics reviewed their MCAS Heat packages and got some tips for approaching both multiple choice and open-response MCAS questions. Then, folks were assigned a short essay to reflect on clothing choice by season. We'll go over these tomorrow and continue our review for Friday's exam.

Honors Physics discussed harmonic series and beats. Harmonics, the integral multiples of a fundamental frequency, give robustness to a sound and we'll look at them tomorrow in lab. Make sure you can calculate the frequencies for members of a harmonic series for vibrating strings/pipes open at both ends and pipes closed at one end. We'll be reviewing our work with sound on Thursday and having our exam on Friday.

Vacation Looms!

Physics A completed their pendulum labs and will discuss those labs when we return from break. As part of the lab activity, add these questions. Information from your lab sheet and textbook will be helpful in working through the items. Remember, that the write-up is not due until the Tuesday we return:

1. Which factor most impacted the pendulum's period?
• Why might that be the case?
2. How can a pendulum be use as an altimeter?
3. Would a grandfather clock keep proper time if taken up on a mountain? How would you adjust it?
4. How would you adjust a pendulum clock to keep proper time on the moon where the gravity is 1/6 that of Earth?
5. What is the length of a pendulum clock that has a period of 1 second.

Physics B worked with the idea of period, frequency and amplitude of vibrations. We defined each term and then looked at the relevant formulas for calculating the period of oscillation of a mass-spring system and a pendulum. On the Monday we return, we'll take a look at mass-spring systems oscillating in simple-harmonic motion and dive a bit deeper into the relevant mathematics.

Intro Physics reviewed their reading/discussion questions for plasma and then took time to do a bit of practice with heat and temperature questions from old MCAS exams. We'll go over these when return and then review the topic as a whole before having a lovely graded learning experience and moving on to waves.

Honors Physics reviewed their work with intensity and loudness before taking time to do some reading and reflecting on hearing safety. Folks read an article dealing with hearing loss and were then asked to write about how they took steps (or not) to protect their hearing and how a loss of hearing or damaged hearing would impact their lives. We'll share these insights when we return from break before moving on to harmonics.

Many Waves

Physics A continued their lab work on pendulums. Folks finished up gathering their data and will work on their graphs in class tomorrow. Remember the purpose of the investigation - which of the tested factors (mass, amplitude, length) impacts the period of the oscillation. Look at your data and make that determination before hunting down the theory to back up your results.

Physics B started their discussion of vibrations and simple harmonic motion. We defined properties of periodic motion and then discussed the special circumstances that describe the special case of simple harmonic motion. Mass-spring and pendulum systems were used to show how restoring force was proportional to displacement and looked at how to calculate the value of that restoring force. Tomorrow, we'll take a harder look at period of oscillation for both mass-spring and pendulum systems and revisit our pendulum labs to highlight the discussion.

Intro Physics reviewed their phase change labs, as well as concepts associated with phases of matter and phase changes. We took another look at the characteristic shape of phase-change diagrams and spent some extra time reading about and contemplating plasmas, which is the most common phase of matter in the universe, but not one we interact as frequently as the other phases. Tomorrow, MCAS practice for heat and temperature.

Honors Physics reviewed basic properties of sound, then moved to the arena of loudness and intensity. We defined intensity as the rate of energy flow per unit area, then applied that definition to how the ear perceives sound and how the decibel scale gives us a better perspective of loudness as we understand it in daily life. We also took time to define and look at examples of forced vibrations and resonance. Make sure you can provide a basic definition of resonance and describe examples where resonance can or has been seen in daily life.

Snow Days!

Friday and Monday both were snow days, which gave folks an unexpected 4-day weekend. To get brains back in motion, Physics A and Honors Physics got to work on a problem involving a poor sap that falls off an icy roof. There was quite a lot involved, but groups rallied nicely to find out how far away from the house the person landed, with Honors Physics having to calculate impact velocity and force (and they didn't get to assume that the person came off the roof horizontally). Tomorrow, Physics A starts on an investigation on simple harmonic motion as demonstrated by pendulums and Honors Physics begins with a study of sound.

Physics B completed their pendulum lab investigations and we'll discuss this lab tomorrow in class. Then, you're going to get the same challenge as Physics A had today, so bring your thinking caps!

Intro Physics reviewed the properties of the phases of matter and then moved to phase changes and energy. Remember that phase changes are physical changes (no change in identity of the matter) and add the terms 'exothermic' and 'endothermic' to your vocabulary. Tomorrow, you'll be working on two labs centering on phase change, which will also be a nice review of the concept of energy and latent heats as applied to phase change.

No Loose Ends

Physics A and B reviewed their latent heat work, then had a general review for the Chapter 9 exam. Here's a couple of other sample conservation of thermal energy problems for you to chew on (look up specific heat values in your textbook):

1. A 1.25 kg block of silver is heated to 450° C then dropped into a bowl filled with 3.50 kg of water. If the equilibrium temperature of the system is 75° C, what was the water's initial temperature? (Ans: 67.5° C)


2. A barrel filled with 50.0 kg of water at 20° C, reaches a temperature of 45° C when an iron pot is added to it. If the iron's initial temperature was 345° C, what is the pot's mass? (Ans: 38.9 kg)

Intro Physics also worked with latent heat, reviewing some concepts before turning attention to the mathematics of the topic. The problems on which you are working will give you practice both with the latent heat formula and the specific heat formula. We'll go over these tomorrow before taking a deeper look at phases and phase changes.

Honors Physics reviewed their properties of waves lab and then had a general review for tomorrow's Chapter 11 exam. On Friday, it's on to sound!

Still Got Lots of Heat

Physics A and B, along with Intro Physics took on the topic of latent heat and phase change. Latent heat is the amount of heat energy required to promote phase change in a substance. We looked at how the input or outflow of heat energy can be shuttled to either kinetic energy of the particles (specific heat) or potential energy to promote phase change (latent heat). We took a look at phase change diagrams and how to correctly interpret individual sections and started in on problem-solving skills for situations involving latent heat. For Physics A and B, we'll go over these problems tomorrow as part of our review for Thursday's exam. For Intro Physics, we'll get deeper into the problem-solving process and work a series of practice items.

Honors Physics took time to investigate the properties of waves. Using springs and string, longitudinal, transverse and standing waves were modeled and analyzed. The processes of constructive and destructive interference were investigated and the wave speed formula was applied to the formed waves. We'll go over this activity as part of our general review in preparation for Thursday's exam.

Heat and Waves

Physics A and B reviewed yesterday's work for heat transfer and then moved towards thinking about how clothing affects heat transfer in both summer and winter. Students are preparing an essay on how their clothing choices during those seasons reflects factors that influence heat transfer between the body and the environment.

Intro Physics has been working the concept of specific heat and covered the basic definition and formula yesterday in class. We looked at examples of how specific heat influences such situations as climate and drew the specific heat discussion into today's work with calorimetry. Calorimeters allow us to monitor heat transfer between objects in a system and work on the basis of conservation of energy. The problems you will be working for homework give you practice applying conservation of energy to real-world situations and Monday's lab work will use rudimentary calorimeters to monitor heat transfer in systems.

Honors Physics reviewed their lab on the period of a pendulum as class began, then moved to extending properties of vibrations to properties of the waves they produce. We looked at basic types of waves and how the concepts of amplitude, frequency and period are applied. We then added wavelength as another property of the oscillatory motion and emphasized that even though we look at vibrations to create waves, what waves carry is energy, not the vibrating material through which they move.

Lots of Heat

Physics A worked on two labs that investigated heat transfer. In the first, the rate of heat gain/loss and the amount of heat gain/loss was tracked for two equal-mass samples of water, one hot and one cold. The second experiment had students experimentally determine the heat of fusion for water. Things to consider for your write-up:

1. What does the shape of the graphs tell you about heat transfer between substances? Was it at a constant rate? When did the heat transfer stop?
2. Would you expect the heat gained by the cold water to be the same as the heat lost by the hot water? Why or why not?
3. Why did we use two insulating cups to make the calorimeter? How could you have improved the design? Did your improved design give you better results?
4. What is the heat of fusion (definition)? Would you expect it to be the same for all materials? Why or why not?
5. Sources of error?

Physics B went over their lab work from yesterday and then dived into a discussion of temperature. We defined temperature, thermal equilibrium and thermal expansion and contrasted the three major temperature scales. Tomorrow, we'll start to look at heat energy, which is energy transferred between objects with different temperatures.

Intro Physics reviewed their work with temperature and then began to look at heat energy. We define heat energy, looked at whay heat energy always flows spontaneously from objects at higher temperatures to objects at lower temperatures and described the three methods of heat transfer: conduction, convection and radiation. Tomorrow we'll review this material and then look at specific heat.

Honors Physics reviewed their work with simple harmonic motion and then moved into adding physical descriptors to objects displaying SHM. We defined period, frequency and amplitude and discussed factors that impact period/frequency of a pendulum and mass-spring system. Tomorrow, we'll work on a lab dealing with the factors that affect the period of a simple pendulum.

Finally!

Midterm Reviews - Over
Midterm Exams - Over
Back to Work

Physics A began their work with heat and temperature today with a defining of temperature and its relationship to internal energy. We then looked at thermal expansion and the various temperature scales commonly in use in both daily life and the scientific community. Intro Physics did the same thing, but without the internal energy piece. Tomorrow, Physics A works on a series of lab investigations for heat transfer and how it impacts temperature change and phase change. Intro Physics will finish up with temperature and then begin to take a look at heat energy.

Physics B worked on two lab investigations during the long block. The first examined heat transfer between two substances at different temperatures and used that information to calculate the specific heat of water. The graphs produce by mixing the hot and cold water were mirror images and the amount of heat lost by the hot water and the heat gained by the cold water were quite similar and that is what we would predict based on conservation of energy. The second lab looked at the heat of fusion of water, the amount of heat energy required to promote a solid-liquid phase change. Tomorrow, we'll dig deeper into the temperature and temperature change part of these experiments and heat heat energy starting on Thursday.

Honors Physics began their work with vibrations and waves. We contrasted periodic motion with simple harmonic motion and looked at how Hooke's Law is used to calculate the restoring force of a spring. We also looked at how to calculate the restoring force of a pendulum and detailed the changes in restoring force, acceleration, velocity and energy for both mass-spring systems and pendulums. Tomorrow, we'll look at quantifying SHM through period, frequency and amplitude and that will lead us to our lab on Thursday, which will center on pendulum motion.