PHYS 303: Modern Physics

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

Explore the physics of a light-rail commuter train's motion. Understand how to calculate times for acceleration and deceleration using the equations of motion. Dive into the concept of emergency deceleration and its implications.

In an elevator ascending, an occupant drops a coin, which accelerates at a different rate than expected. This reveals the elevator's own acceleration towards the Earth. By analyzing forces and tensions, we determine the cable's tension to be 16000 N.

Explore the relative strengths of two fundamental forces, the electromagnetic force and the gravitational force, in this enlightening physics tutorial. Learn about Coulomb's law and Newton's law of gravitation, and uncover the significant difference in their constants that makes the electromagnetic force much more powerful than gravity.

Discover how energy conservation principles determine the velocity of a bouncing ball. Relate the ball's height and its potential and kinetic energies. Understand the velocity change upon impact and rebound.

Estimate a car's initial speed from skid marks using physics principles. Apply Newton's Second Law and equations of motion to deduce the initial velocity. Understand the role of frictional force in car deceleration during accidents.