Mechanics is the study of the interactions between physical bodies and their consequent motion.
In this topic, we will:
- Define the quantities used to describe motion (displacement, velocity, acceleration).
- Derive a set of equations that give the relationship between the displacement, velocity, acceleration and time when the acceleration is constant.
- Solve problems involving constant acceleration in 1 and 2-dimensions.
- Understand the effects of forces.
- Relate unbalanced forces to motion.
- Consider energy and the capabilities that this gives to bodies.
- Define power and efficiency.
- Learn about types of collision in terms of conservation of momentum.
Collisions
Using the laws of conservation of energy it is possible to calculate the combined velocity of two astronauts colliding in space, amongst other things.
Balancing forces
Balancing forces in 1 and 2 dimensions on the Earth and in space.
Kinematics
Before we can model motion we need to define the quantities that we are going to use, once that has been done we can investigate how they are related.
Potential energy
It might be better to call potential energy positional energy since it is the energy a body has due to its position.
Examples of forces
Normal force, weight, tension, buoyancy. drag and friction all colourfully illustrated with Algodoo.
Work and energy
To predict the outcome of the collision between two ball we need more than just the conservation of momentum, we neeed to consider energy as well.