Physics

Description

We stand on the shoulders of giants. Whether by observation, experimentation or brilliant insight, the progress of physics through the centuries has been advanced by scientific geniuses who wanted to know how things work. Students will find out for themselves when they take this course and visit “Physics World.” In each “Physics World” module, students discover the contributions of geniuses like Galileo, Newton and Einstein. In their work, students learn the concepts, theories, and laws that govern the interaction of matter, energy and forces. From tiny atoms to galaxies with millions of stars, the universal laws of physics are there for you to observe and apply. Using laboratory activities, videos, software, and websites, students will follow in the footsteps of some of the world’s greatest thinkers. This is a serious course that will make students think. It will also make them appreciate the beauty and importance of the science that governs their lives. 

Major Topics and Concepts

Semester 1:

Learning Styles
Plagiarism, Libel, Slander
Theory vs. Law, Science vs. Pseudoscience
Measurement Techniques
Graphing Data using Graphical Analysis
Experimental Techniques
Lab Design
Average and Instantaneous Speed
Problem-Solving Methods
Vector and Scalar Quantities
Equation Manipulation
Averge Velocity
Average Acceleration
Freefall
Mechanical Universe video - The Law of Falling Bodies
Newton's Laws
Mechanical Universe video - The Fundamental Forces
Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation
Coulomb's Law
Mass and Weight
Mechanical Universe video - The Apple and the Moon
Free-body Diagrams
Uniform Circular Motion
Angular Momentum
Projectile Motion

Semester 2:

Temperature and Heat
Conservation of Thermal Energy
Kinetic and Potential Energy
Work and Power
Conductors and Insulators
MUHSA Electrical Fields and Forces
Simple Circuits
Components
Charge Motion
Simple DC Circuits
Capacitors
Schematic Diagrams
Series Circuits
Parallel Circuits
Simple Harmonic Motion
Pendulum Equation
Wave Components
Mechanical Universe video - Waves
Wave Equation
Ray Diagrams
Refraction
Lenses
Lens Equation
Snell's Law
Atomic Theory
Elements of Physics: Matter - Atoms and Molecules
Fundamental Particles
Duality of Light
Photoelectric Effect
Strong Nuclear Force
Radioactivity
Nuclear Fission and Nuclear Fusion
Special Relativity
Cosmology