Physics Demonstrations in Mechanics, Part 6

30 minutes

Physics Demonstrations in Mechanics is a four-part video series presenting a full range of demonstrations in linear motion, two-dimensional motion, Newton’s laws of motion, momentum, work & energy, and gravitation. Similar in format to Demonstrations in Mechanics Parts I & II, this more recent series (Parts III through VI) significantly broadens and enhances the collection of mechanics demonstrations. The program’s strength lies in the use of specialized apparatus, high-speed photography, and 3D computer animation.

Program Format

Individual demonstrations are 3 to 4 minutes in length and can be quickly accessed using the program's on-screen indexing system. The indexing system allows the teacher to select a particular demonstration and show it at the appropriate time during a unit on mechanics. The accompanying teacher’s guide gives additional data, information, and suggestions on using the demonstrations to promote further classroom discussion.

Demonstration Selection and Filming Techniques

The selection of demonstrations includes those which are difficult to perform in the classroom and those which require apparatus which is not accessible to many physics teachers. Detailed observation for many of the demonstrations is accomplished through use of the following photographic techniques: Stroboscopic photography, slow motion/stop action photography, full screen and over screen graphics, and close-ups of experimental apparatus.

Contents of Part 6:

Conservation of Momentum: Strobe Analysis of Two-Dimensional Collisions
Motion of Center of Mass: Rigid and Non-Rigid Bodies
Work and Energy: Work Performed by Falling Mass (High Speed Film)
Work and Energy: Quantitative Analysis of Bow & Arrow System
Rotational Dynamics: Behaviour of a Gyroscope
Physics Teasers/Predict the Outcome: A Collection of Puzzling Physical Events.