Dynamics: Forces and Newton's Laws · Mechanics & Motion
Circular Motion and Gravitation
Examination of objects moving in circular paths and the universal law of gravitation. Students explore the relationship between orbital speed and distance from a central mass.
Key Questions
- 1How does this model explain why planets orbit in ellipses rather than falling into the sun?
- 2What variables affect the centripetal force required to keep a car on a curved road?
- 3How would an engineer apply the inverse square law to position a GPS satellite?
Common Core State Standards
HS-PS2-4
Grade: 10th Grade
Subject: Physics
Unit: Dynamics: Forces and Newton's Laws
Period: Mechanics & Motion
Suggested Methodologies
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More in Dynamics: Forces and Newton's Laws
Inertia and Equilibrium
Study of objects at rest or moving at constant velocity where net forces sum to zero. Students use free-body diagrams to visualize invisible forces like tension and friction.
3 methodologies
Acceleration and Net Force
Application of F=ma to systems involving multiple forces and inclined planes. Students calculate how changing mass or force affects the resulting acceleration of a system.
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