A student:
The relationship between the motion of objects and the forces that act on them is often complex. However, Newton’s Laws of Motion can be used to describe the effect of forces on the motion of single objects and simple systems. This module develops the key concept that forces are always produced in pairs that act on different objects and add to zero.
By applying Newton’s laws directly to simple systems, and, where appropriate, the law of conservation of momentum and law of conservation of mechanical energy, students examine the effects of forces. They also examine the interactions and relationships that can occur between objects by modelling and representing these using vectors and equations.
In many situations, within and beyond the discipline of physics, knowing the rates of change of quantities provides deeper insight into various phenomena. In this module, the rates of change of displacement, velocity and energy are of particular significance and students develop an understanding of the usefulness and limitations of modelling.
In this module, students focus on designing, evaluating and conducting investigations and interpreting trends in data to solve problems related to dynamics. Students should be provided with opportunities to engage with all the Working Scientifically skills throughout the course.
Inquiry question: How are forces produced between objects and what effects do forces produce?
Students:
using Newton’s Laws of Motion, describe static and dynamic interactions between two or more objects and the changes that result from:
explore the concept of net force and equilibrium in one-dimensional and simple two-dimensional contexts using: (ACSPH050)
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solve problems or make quantitative predictions about resultant and component forces by applying the following relationships:
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conduct a practical investigation to explain and predict the motion of objects on inclined planes (ACSPH098)