PHYS 105: Physics and Society

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

Dive into the thrilling world of physics and surfing as we explore the angle of inclination of a wave's face. Discover how a surfer accelerates down a wave with an acceleration of 3.25 m/s² while ignoring friction. Join us for an engaging and educational explanation of this exciting phenomenon.

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.

Uncover the secrets of watch crystals in this video! We convert the frequency of a quartz crystal used in electric watches into its period. Join us to explore the principles of timekeeping and crystal oscillations.

Join us in this enlightening video as we explore the fascinating world of projectiles and their optimal launch angles. We dive into the physics behind how a fixed initial speed affects the range of a projectile and why, for most angles, there are two choices that yield the same range. Delve into factors that affect an archer's ability to hit a target, including wind, and learn why a smaller angle, closer to the horizontal, is often preferable. Discover when and why a larger angle may be necessar

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!