Physics
In Physics class, taught by Ms. Chase, we do algebra-based physics as well as calculus-based physics, following much of the AP Physics C: Mechanics curriculum. Along with solving theory-based problems, we do a ton of labs to gain a better understanding of fundamental concepts and conducting experiments.
Multi-step Rocket Problem
During our kinematics and projectile motion unit, we were given a problem where we had to calculate the total horizontal distance a rocket traveled given its trajectory over a given period of time. Although we had the same general problem, each person was given different values for acceleration, velocities at varying points, and distances at certain intervals. We needed to use kinematics concepts as well as angular projectile motion concepts over a multitude of steps to get our answers.
POW 1
Our first Problem of the Week (POW) for Physics class utilized concepts from our projectile motion unit as well as some from our dynamics unit. We were tasked with finding the distance a puck at the top of a ramp resting on a platform lands away from the base of the platform, as well as developing a model that maximized the distance landed. The thing I found most challenging with this POW was communicating our solving process and calculations clearly in our written report, because we needed to justify each step and decision we made with physics backing. We used Python to make our model, which optimized the angle between the ramp and the platform to maximize landing distance.