OK, so I have been neglecting this blog for a long time...Sorry!

We are currently trying to finish up material in Chapter 5.  A-block discussed all topics up through banked curves today.  Next time we will tackle air resistance.

New notes are posted in the "Class Notes" page.

Don't forget to check WebAssign for updated deadlines on Chapter 5 homework assignments.

Also, don't forget that we will have our multiple choice quiz (10 question) on dynamics this Friday, Dec. 15th.

As always, contact me with questions or concerns.

Onward!

At the end of last week we started looking at 3-D vectors.  This week we will have multiple assessments about the previous Modern Physics material (check the calendar on the AP Physics website for details), but in between assessments, we will try to wrap up the intro stuff in Chapter 1, and move into real physics topics in Chapter 2.

Heads up that Chapter 1 WebAssign work is due later this week (it should not be too taxing).

Contact me with questions or concerns.

Onward.

So everyone has finished discussing decay rates, now, and we are wrapping up the Modern Physics unit.  Both classes will do a lab about statistical nature of decay, and then we will schedule some end of unit assessments. 

I am thinking we will do a few 10 point quizzes before the week is out, and then next week we will have some end of unit tests (both free response and multiple choice).  In the meantime, we will also get started with the beginning of mechanics since all of the calculus classes are well into derivatives, now.

Onward.

OK, we are on the cusp of finishing Chapter 30.  A-block got to the brink of the binding energy equation, and C-block got it.  That means that what remains on our "to-do" list is...

1. finish binding energy
2. discuss decay rates and half-life

Oh yes...and discuss the last peice of the relic identification puzzle!

Onward.

OK, A- and C-blocks are almost even now.

We have a few main tasks remaining in Chapter 30:

1. describe decay mechanisms
2. describe the mechanism for release of energy in a nuclear reaction
3. describe decay rates

We will be looking at some no-counters, a counter, a multiple choice quiz, and a lab in the next few days.  I will try to put things on the class calendar as I come to final decisions.

Onward.

The goal today is to bring C-block even with A-block.  Yesterday, A-block discussed details of nuclear size, field forces, sources of instability, and began discussing decay types.

Also, FYI, most WebAssign grades have been transferred to ASPEN now.  Contact me with questions if necessary.

Onward.

Hope everyone enjoyed the long weekend (in spite of the weather).

Last Friday we began discussing topics in nuclear physics in the context of the scientific analysis of an historical relic.  The plan is to continue to discuss nuclear reactions, how they happen, and how we can use this information to learn more about the world around us.

That's science!