Outcomes

A student:

• selects and processes appropriate qualitative and quantitative data and information using a range of appropriate media PH11/12-4
• analyses and evaluates primary and secondary data and information PH11/12-5
• solves scientific problems using primary and secondary data, critical thinking skills and scientific processes PH11/12-6
• communicates scientific understanding using suitable language and terminology for a specific audience or purpose PH11/12-7
• describes and analyses qualitatively and quantitatively circular motion and motion in a gravitational field, in particular, the projectile motion of particles PH12-12

Content Focus

Motion in one dimension at constant velocity or constant acceleration can be explained and analysed relatively simply. However, motion is frequently more complicated because objects move in two or three dimensions, causing the net force to vary in size or direction.

Students develop an understanding that all forms of complex motion can be understood by analysing the forces acting on a system, including the energy transformations taking place within and around the system. By applying new mathematical techniques, students model and predict the motion of objects within systems. They examine two-dimensional motion, including projectile motion and uniform circular motion, along with the orbital motion of planets and satellites, which are modelled as an approximation to uniform circular motion.

Working Scientifically

In this module, students focus on gathering, analysing and evaluating data to solve problems and communicate ideas about advanced mechanics. Students should be provided with opportunities to engage with all the Working Scientifically skills throughout the course.

Content

Projectile Motion

Inquiry question: How can models that are used to explain projectile motion be used to analyse and make predictions?

Students:

• analyse the motion of projectiles by resolving the motion into horizontal and vertical components, making the following assumptions:

  • a constant vertical acceleration due to gravity
  • zero air resistance

• apply the modelling of projectile motion to quantitatively derive the relationships between the following variables:

  • initial velocity
  • launch angle
  • maximum height
  • time of flight
  • final velocity
  • launch height
  • horizontal range of the projectile (ACSPH099)

• conduct a practical investigation to collect primary data in order to validate the relationships derived above.

• solve problems, create models and make quantitative predictions by applying the equations of motion relationships for uniformly accelerated and constant rectilinear motion

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