PHYS 1040: Elementary Astronomy

Learn how to calculate the kinetic energy of a Saturn 5 rocket with an Apollo spacecraft attached using physics principles and formulas. Understand the importance of unit conversion and the work-energy theorem as you plug values into the KE = 1/2 mv² formula. Discover that the kinetic energy for this rocket and spacecraft combo is an astonishing 1.82 x 10¹³ Joules.

Illuminate the science of flashlight power! In this video, we explore how a 6V bulb is powered by a 3V battery with an internal resistance. We calculate the power dissipation of the bulb and the terminal voltage of the battery, unraveling the physics of electrical circuits.

Join us for a dramatic river rescue mission! In this video, we solve the problem of how a rescue team can reach a child in danger of drowning in a fast-flowing river. We calculate the angle from the shore for their pilot to approach the child directly, considering the river's current and the boat's speed. Explore the principles of vector addition and save lives!

Explore the concept of capacitance in a spherical capacitor and learn how to calculate it. Discover how to find the plate area for a parallel-plate capacitor with the same capacitance and separation.

Delve into the physics of high-speed tracks and calculate the radius where drivers experience a 5.5g acceleration, exploring the multiple options and their implications.

Join us for a journey with electrons in this video! We explore the motion of an electron through a resistive strip powered by a 12V battery. Discover the electron's direction, work done by the electric field, and the transfer of energy to thermal energy in the strip.