Internet2 K-12 Application
Physics Toolbox

Overview

Computer Model of a Projectile in Motion

The Physics Toolbox is concieved as a set of interactive computer simulations that allow users to experiment with many fundamental concepts in physics. For realistically rendered simulations, these programs would require significant computing power, more than most K-12 institutions currently have. Therefore, the Internet2 would be used to deliver animated simulations to remote sites from more powerful computing resources at university centers. Since most schools lack not only computing power but also broadband access, it is desirable that these programs (or simplified adaptations) have some functionality in less robust environments as well.

To be effective for a wide range of educational levels, the Physics Toolbox should be useful for students with varied educational backgrounds. Therefore, it is recommended that these programs be in the form of interactive computer simulations that are visually entertaining but can be used with different levels of understanding. The following approach with at least three levels of participation is suggested as one way of reaching multiple audiences:

Levels of Participation

Investigative Level - This level is one of pure interaction with little or no knowledge or expertise required. A student would be able to play with simple computer models and merely observe the results. It is suggested that for default models, only one parameter be varied at a time, such as the effect of launch angle with respect to how far a projectile will travel. In that way, students can explore simple concepts and learn by trial and error. Teachers could also tailor models for student use in discovery learning activities.
Demonstration Level - At this level, users would have much more control over the computer model configuration. They could investigate the interaction of two or more parameters, or could enter specific values to match some specific condition. If the model design is flexible enough, a variety of standard physics problems that students encounter in high school or college could be easily modeled by adjusting numerical values.
Competition Level - This level would permit multiple users to interact with various scenarios in the form of a virtual competition. A problem could be presented to competitors, who would then match wits with remote players in a game format. Players would use their knowledge of physical systems in order to achieve some advantage while additional participants could merely observe the contest.

Educational Objectives

Since a primary objective of the Physics Toolbox is to provide a resource for K-12 instruction, the proposed model should be closely aligned with state and national standards. Some of these objectives are listed in the National Science Teaching Standards as developed by the National Academy of Sciences. Specific objectives for the Physical Sciences can be found through the following links:

Suggested Toolbox Organization

It is hoped that a large number of different simulation models will be developed over time from various contributors including high school, college, and independent resources. In order to help classify the appropriate content area, it is suggested that models be grouped according to physics concepts. Some modules might be included in one or more of the following categories:

Introduction to Mechanics - Part 1: Motion
The first major component in most high school or college physics courses is the study of mechanics and motion. Typical subjects covered include:
1. Motion in One Direction
2. Vectors, Motion in Two-Dimensions
3. Newton's Laws of Motion
4. Work and Energy
Mechanics - Part 2: Momentum, Work, and Energy
A second level in mechanics might include the study of more advanced concepts including topics like momentum, work, energy, particle systems, collisions, tension, and friction.
Mechanics - Rotational Forces
A third area would include the study of the dynamics and equilibrium as related to rotation. Concepts included could be angular momentum, gravitation, and Kepler's laws.
Mechanics - Solids and Fluids
In this area, topics like buoyancy, stress, strain, and viscous flow could be investigated.
Oscillations, Waves and Sound
Models could include harmonic motion, springs, and sound topics.
Thermodynamics
Programs could include heat transfer and ideal gas models simulated as particle systems.
Electricity and Magnetism
There are many models that could be developed that are related to electical fields, current, and magnetism.
Optics
In this section, a number of highly interactive models could be developed related to optics topics such as reflection, refraction, and lenses.
Modern Physics
For this area, models could be developed on modern physics topics such as relativity and quantum mechanics.

Some Suggested Models

For each of the above concept areas, a number of creative and entertaining computer models could be devised. Below are brief descriptions and links to some suggested models that might be initial attempts in the development of the Physics Toolbox.

Projectiles in Motion
The following program is suggested as a possible first unit to model in the Physics Toolbox. Illustrated in the graphic at the top of the page, this module involves an interactive computer model that can be used to study a number of classic problems dealing with motion that a typical student might encounter in a high school or college physics class. It also has broad utility for lower grade levels in a number of science education objectives.
- Description of the Model
- Analysis of Educational Objectives
Ideal Gas Model
In this model, students would be able to experiment with a closed system of particles representing an ideal gas. Users would be able to experiment with various controls such as temperature and pressure, observing the resulting changes in the kinetic energy of these particles in a 3D visualization. Various inputs could be permitted including the addition of new particles via jets, the escape of particals through leaks, the mixture of particles with different different masses, or the addition of objects such as balloons that might be manipulated by various system conditions.

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