In response to conventional rocket demands on fuel supplies, electromagnetic launches were developed to give payloads high velocity using a stationary energy source. Several orbital mechanics problems are solved including a simple problem (radial launch with no rotation) and a complex problem involving air resistance and gravity. (DH)

Presents an experiment which focuses on the inertial properties of a rigid body as expressed in terms of principal axes and moments of inertia. Background information, a description of the apparatus needed, and a discussion of results obtained are included. (JN)

The principle means by which g has been measured are summarized. Discussed are "Kater's Reversible Pendulum," falling rules, and interferometry methods. Types of corrections and various sources of uncertainty are considered. (CW)

Today students routinely measure the acceleration due to gravity (g) with strobes and high-speed photography. However, it is possible to measure g using equipment and reasoning available to Galileo. Such an experiment (and the equipment needed) is described. (JN)

Explains the effect that depth of water has on the speed of Olympic-style racing canoes and kayaks. Indicates that canoes are harder to paddle in shallow water because the skin friction drag increases appreciable when the water depth decreases. (DH)

Describes Bernoulli's equation and Poiseuille's equation for fluid dynamics. Discusses the application of the combined Bernoulli-Poiseuille equation in real flows, such as viscous flows under gravity and acceleration. (YP)

Provides a qualitative discussion on the force of a charged particle on itself. Areas addressed include: (1) time delay effects; (2) accelerating spherical charge; and (3) radiation resistance. (JN)

Describes a new method and apparatus (consisting of a steel sheet, electromagnet, base, balls, and carbon paper) used to perform mechanics experiments which, until now, required use of an air table. Also compares the apparatus to an air table, explores its range of uses, and examines rotational dynamics. (DH)

Discusses the science of roller coasters, relating gravity, potential/kinetic energy, inertia, and centripetal force to the various parts of the ride, providing tips on linking classroom discussions to field trips. Includes sample student activity sheet and source for additional units using amusement park rides/playground activities to teach…

Discusses the theory and history behind an experiment that will be performed to measure the gravitational forces that effect antimatter. Describes conditions under which the principle of equivalence would be violated or supported. Reviews historical tests of equivalence, current theory and experiments. Presents the design of the new experiment.…

Argues that previous definitions of work and heat are inappropriate. Presents new definitions that are formulated using experimental quantities, claiming that they apply equally well to reversible and irreversible processes. Indicates some of the problems with earlier definitions and applies the new definitions to the First Law of thermodynamics.…

At the end of a secondary school science study of mechanics, a summary lab uses a motorcycle to provide students with the chance to apply some of the concepts they have studied. Exercises from this motorcycle physics lab are discussed. (Author/JN)

Demonstrates misconceptions of the meaning of temperature based on classical kinetic energy. Discusses some misconceptions about negative temperatures and the effect of compression. (YP)

Describes four kinds of movement by a cat with or without angular momentum and tail or tail-less during free falling. Presents many pictures illustrating the movement. Supports the position that the angular momentum of the tail plays an important role in free fall. (YP)

Discusses the applications of the principles of mechanics to rock climbing techniques. Provides illustrations showing the applied force vectors. (YP)