PH 261: Physics of Energy & Environ

Learn how to calculate total displacement when traveling west and south at different speeds and durations. Explore the direction and magnitude of your journey in this informative video.

Discover the magic of total internal reflection in this video! We explore how a ray of light refracts when traveling from glass into water. Find out the critical angle needed for total reflection, preventing any light from entering the water. Dive into the world of optics and refraction.

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.

Step into the thrilling world of amusement park divers as we explore the physics behind their jaw-dropping stunts. Diving from a platform 21.3 meters (70 feet) above a pool of water, we investigate the announcer's claim that divers enter the water at a speed of 56 miles per hour (25 meters per second). We'll also uncover the possibility of divers leaping directly upward to achieve a specific water entry speed and examine the physical feasibility of such a feat. Join us for an educational journey