The Physics of Slingshots

Wednesday, May 31, 2017
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Physics in Slingshots

Works Cited

Abstract- Slingshots are simple devices that are used to launch a small projectile, although appearing very simple in function slingshots utilize a number of physics principals. The drawing of the sling back represents Hooke's Law due to its elasticity. Once finding all the factors of force and velocity the findings are used in determining projectile motion, and determining on the angle that the projectile is launched one can find the range of the slingshot.

Research Paper

Slideshow Presentation

The Physics of Hula Hooping

Grace Pashayan
Period 7
AP Physics-1

                                                   

Abstract

            Hula hooping is one of the great childhood pastimes, beloved by kids all over the world as a schoolyard staple. A simple toy, just a large, hollow hoop, usually lightweight plastic, balanced in rotational equilibrium around someone's hips. Sure it seems easy enough to master the motion, but have you ever stopped to think of the physical mechanics of the process?  By all logical reasoning, a hula hoop should fall to the floor, due to the effect of gravity, so why is it able to stay rotating around your hips? Many physics concepts are at work in the efforts of hula hooping, such as centripetal force, friction, inertia, and torque. I explore these concepts and more in my paper linked below, “The Physics of Hula Hooping”.

  

Slides Presentation 

Research Paper 

Physics of Basketball

The Physics of Basketball

Jelani Jackson

Period 4

Research Paper
Works Cited
Basketball Slides

Abstract: 

Basketball is widely considered as one of the most popular sports in the world in today's day and age, and the number of people today who participate grows every single year. While the idea behind basketball and its rules may be considered straight forward and simple by many, there are many ways in which physics, and science is taken into consideration with the basic fundamentals of the sport. In my research, i will explain the basic fundamentals of basketball, and how that ties into many different types of physics concepts. Those being Projectile motion, linear motion, Inertia, backspin, and of course, gravity. I will be demonstrating how each of these physics components tie into the game of basketball, and how each effect the sport and a number of different ways. The basic skills of jumping up for a shot, or the backspin put on the ball when shooting are both examples of ways physics plays into the basic aspects of the sports, without natural realization from those who play! All information found in my research paper can be found in the "Works Cited" page listed above. 

Physics in Frisbee

Works Cited

Abstract: Frisbees are a common source of entertainment and sport. They operate under the physical concept, aerodynamic lift. When flying in the air, a Frisbee can be viewed as wing, with Bernoulli's Principle controlling the magnitude of the lift force which keeps it in the air. The different forces applied are not centered on the disc though, so angular momentum is needed to prevent the disc from flipping over. This angular momentum resists the torque caused by various forces.

Slides Presentation
Research Report

The Physics Behind Gymnastics

Works Cited

Abstract 

Gymnastics is a highly competitive sport, demanding strong skills in speed, strength and agility from relatively young athletes. While the extreme tumbling passes and balance may be considered impossible for any average person, basic laws of gravity and force presented through the principles of physics, explains why gymnasts are able to execute these tricks safely and accurately each time. In this paper, basic apparatuses are covered through their relation to specific physics concepts. First, comes the relation of Newton’s laws regarding force, acceleration, and motion through the uneven bars and balance beam. Then, the paper will explore how angular momentum and torque allows for the proper rotation that is demanded in the vault apparatus and is also demonstrated during floor routines. Through these explanations, the seemingly unfeasible events become easier to understand through basic physics concepts.

Research Paper

Google Slides 

Gymnast McKayla Maroney sticks the landing on her Amanar at the 2012 London Olympics, using the power of torque and angular momentum to perfect her vault! 

PHYSICS IN LACROSSE

Abstract: Lacrosse is one the fastest growing sports in the world. Originally played by Native Americans this contact sport now has its own professional league and is played throughout many collegiate and high school levels. The game involves sticks in which the player uses to catch and shoot a ball into the opposing teams goal. While many players may not notice, lacrosse is found to have many signs of physics within the sport itself. Newton's Laws of Motion can be found with the ball and collisions. Another example would be torque and lever when passing and shooting. Friction is also found in the lacrosse sticks. Physics is very much apparent in game and can help educate you more about the sport of lacrosse. 

Presentation
Research Paper
Works Cited

The Physics of Car Collisions

The Physics of Car Collisions 

(It is supposed to look like this)

Works Cited

Abstract

While car collisions are certainly a scary scene, having knowledge about the physics involved with them could reduce the terror. In my research, I will be explaining four key concepts highlighted in car collisions, including linear momentum, impulse, inertia, and collisions. Beginning with inertia, I will remind you of Newton's Laws of Motion and express the effects of inertia on the passenger during a car collision. I will also add the significance of the application of impulse when talking about inertia. I then describe the different types of collisions, giving direct examples of each in the context of car collisions. Building immediately off collisions, I will evaluate linear momentum, its principles, and its application to the conservation of energy in collisions. Knowing and understanding these simple principles of physics is vital not only for your own safety (and your cars!), but for the safety of all those around you. All information found in my research came from numerous sources and can be found in the "Works Cited" page, listed above.

Car Collisions Research Paper

Car Collisions Slides