PHYS 309: Descriptive Astronomy

Discover the gravitational forces at play in a triangle of masses in this video. We calculate the net force on each mass and explore how changing the side length impacts these forces. Join us for a gravitational journey through physics.

Join us on the baseball field as we calculate the physics of a ground ball throw to second base. In this video, we determine the distance from the shortstop to the second baseman and the vertical drop of the ball. Explore the principles of projectile motion in sports.

Explore the fascinating world of geosynchronous satellites in this video. Learn how these communication satellites are strategically placed in circular orbits, staying directly over fixed points on the Earth's equator as our planet rotates. We delve into the physics behind these orbits, calculating the speed and acceleration of a satellite in geosynchronous orbit, using the Earth's radius and altitude as reference. Gain a deeper understanding of the science that enables global communications.

Dive into the world of buoyancy and density in this video! We explore how an object's weight changes when immersed in water and oil. Join us to calculate the density of the object and the oil, unraveling the principles of fluid dynamics and buoyant forces.

In this enlightening video, we unravel the mysteries of electric charges and forces. Discover the fascinating concept of how the separation between two identical tiny spheres, each carrying the same electric charge, influences the force they exert on each other. Will the force double, become one-quarter as large, or remain unchanged? Join us to explore the intriguing world of electrostatics and the principles that govern electric interactions.