NS541: Rotation and Gravitation

NS 541 Concepts in Physics II: Rotation and Gravitation

Physics content: The universal law of gravitation, uniform circular motion, rotational motion.

Philosophy and History of Physics: Historical development of the experimental method.

Physics Education Research: Introduction to novice and expert problem-solving strategies, concept-mapping for physics, and misconceptions about gravity.

In this course, participants will learn how to apply kinematic definitions and Newton’s Laws to solve problems in circular motion, systems such planetary, and rotating bodies. 

Physics Topics will include:

  • Circular Motion
  • Universal Theory of Gravity and Planetary Orbits
  • Kinematics and Dynamics of Rotational Motion
  • Conservation of Angular Momentum

Conceptual History and Pedagogy Topics Include: 

  • Readings from  Galileo, Newton and Einstein on Gravity
  • Readings on students’ preconceptions about circular motion, gravity, and rotational motion.
Bibliography

Conceptual History Reading

  • S. Toulminm & J. Goodfield, The Architecture of Matter
    (Chapter 7: Preparing the Ground), Univ. of Chicago Press, 1982, ISBN-10: 0226808408
  • Sections from I. Newton, Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy, translated by Motte pp 44-47
    Univ. of Californa Press, Berkeley, 1962
  • R. Wolfson, Simply Einstein (Chap. 14: A Problem of Gravity),
    W.W. Norton & Co. (2003)

PERL Reading

  • C. Kavanagh & C. Sneider, “Learning about Gravity I. Free Fall: A Guide for Teachers and Curriculum Developers”, Astronomy Education Review,
    Vol. 5, Sept. 2006- May 2007
  • C. Kavanagh & C. Sneider, “Learning about Gravity II. Trajectories and Orbits: A Gude for Teachers and Curriculum Developers”, Astronomy Education Review,
    Vol. 5, Sept. 2006- May 2007
  • W. Roth, K. Lucas & C. McRobbie, “Students’ talk about rotational motion within and across contexts, and implications for future learning”,
    International Journal of Science Education, Vol. 23, 2001
  • K. Mashood & V. Singh, “Development of a Concept Inventory in Rotational Kinematics: Initial Phases and Some Methodological Concerns”,
    Proccedings of epiSTEME 5, India, 2013
  • Trumper, R. (1996). Teaching about energy through a spiral curriculum: guiding principles. Journal of Curriculum and Supervision, 12, 66 –75.