NotesFAQContact Us
Collection
Advanced
Search Tips
Showing all 7 results Save | Export
Peer reviewed Peer reviewed
Fisher, Kurt – Physics Teacher, 1999
Finds that students taking algebra-based introductory physics have difficulty with one- and two-body problems in particle mechanics. Provides graded exercises for drawing and utilizing free-body diagrams. (CCM)
Descriptors: Diagrams, Higher Education, Illustrations, Motion
Peer reviewed Peer reviewed
Ramsey, Gordon P. – Physics Teacher, 1991
An incident light ray parallel to the optical axis of a parabolic mirror will be reflected at the focal point and vice versa. Presents a mathematical proof that uses calculus, algebra, and geometry to prove this reflective property. (MDH)
Descriptors: Algebra, Calculus, Geometry, High Schools
Peer reviewed Peer reviewed
De Jong, Marvin L. – Physics Teacher, 1993
Describes the powerful graphing ability of computer algebra systems (CAS) to create three-dimensional graphs or surface graphics of electric potentials. Provides equations along with examples of the printouts. Lists the programs Mathematica, Maple, Derive, Theorist, MathCad, and MATLAB as promising CAS systems. (MVL)
Descriptors: Computer Software Evaluation, Computer Uses in Education, Electricity, Higher Education
Peer reviewed Peer reviewed
Glick, David – Physics Teacher, 1995
Presents a technique that helps students concentrate more on the science and less on the mechanics of algebra while dealing with introductory physics formulas. Allows the teacher to do complex problems at a lower level and not be too concerned about the mathematical abilities of the students. (JRH)
Descriptors: Algebra, Chemistry, Equations (Mathematics), Mathematics
Peer reviewed Peer reviewed
Daly, Lisa N.; Horton, George K. – Physics Teacher, 1994
Describes the extended general physics course taught at Rutgers University. The course presents to students at the high school algebra level the topic of analyzing a particular thought experiment that yields the time dilation formula and subsequently space contraction, velocity addition, and other 20th-century physics concepts. (MVL)
Descriptors: Higher Education, Physics, Relativity, Science Curriculum
Peer reviewed Peer reviewed
Hart, Gerald E.; Cottle, Paul D. – Physics Teacher, 1993
Discusses findings regarding the academic backgrounds of students taking algebra-based physics. Four areas were examined: (1) performance in math courses; (2) high school physics background; (3) community or junior college experience; and (4) science education majors. Suggestions for improving the academic performance for students in these areas…
Descriptors: Algebra, Educational Background, Higher Education, Introductory Courses
Peer reviewed Peer reviewed
de Villiers, Michael D. – Physics Teacher, 1991
Presents a simple mathematical model in which resultant speed is the sum or difference between wind speed and runner speed and a more complex model that assumes that only a proportion of the wind's speed affects one's running speed to describe the time difference between running with and without wind. (MDH)
Descriptors: Algebra, High Schools, Integrated Activities, Interdisciplinary Approach