Objectives - Forces in Two Dimensions
The Minds On Physics program consists of 15 modules. Each module covers a different topic and consists of a varying number of assignments. Every assignment addresses one or two objectives. The objectives for the Forces in Two Dimensions module are listed below.
- Assignment 1:
- The student should be able to explain the meaning of a vector component and use that understanding to compare the relative magnitudes of the components of a given vector.
- The student should be able to use trigonometric functions to calculate the components of a given vector.
- Assignment 2:
- The student should be able to analyze physical situations in which forces act at angles to the horizontal to accelerate objects across horizontal surfaces.
- The student should be able to determine the horizontal accelerations of objects to which forces are applied at angles to the horizontal.
- Assignment 3:
- The student should be able to define equilibrium and describe the state of objects which are at equilibrium.
- Assignment 4:
- The student should be able to physically analyze situations in which a weight is supported by two or more cables which extend at angles to the horizontal.
- The student should be able to perform calculations to mathematically relate the tension in a sign-supporting cable to the angle with the horizontal and the mass of the sign.
- Assignment 5:
- The student should be able to identify the forces acting upon an object upon an inclined plane and determine the value and recognize the importance of the components of the weight vector.
- The student should be able to compare forces and force components for objects placed upon inclined planes.
- Assignment 6:
- The student should be able to mathematically analyze physical situations involving an object upon an inclined plane.