Explore The Physical Principles Of Classical Physics 217675
Explore The Physical Principles Of Classical Physics
Explore the physical principles of classical physics. Instructions In a two-page paper, identify the classical physics principles contained within the following scenario. (See instructions below) Explain how these principals connect to work done by Galileo or Newton. Finally, consider the different fields in which Galileo and Newton did research, and give an example of one of these fields in use in your life. For instance, Newton developed the field of optics. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you are using Newton's physical optics theories every day.
Aside from glasses or contacts, how do the theories of Newton or Galileo affect you in your daily life? Scenario Mandy took a trip to Rome, Italy. She gazed out over the open ocean 20,000 feet below as her airplane began its descent to her final destination. She could watch the Sun setting in the west. Over the Eastern horizon peeked a full moon, just rising, displaying its cratered face.
As the plane neared the ground, Mandy could not help but think that she was in a giant metal object hurtling through the sky. Without the specific shape of its wings, the plane would fall to the ground no differently than a large metal projectile.
Paper For Above instruction
Introduction
Classical physics forms the foundation of our understanding of the natural world, describing fundamental principles that govern motion, forces, energy, and light. Notable figures such as Galileo Galilei and Sir Isaac Newton laid the groundwork for many of these principles, which remain influential in modern science and everyday life. The scenario involving Mandy’s airplane journey provides a practical context to explore these classical physics principles, their connection to historical scientific work, and their implications for our daily experiences.
Classical Physics Principles in the Scenario
The scenario depicts several core classical physics principles, including Newtonian mechanics and the behavior of light. Firstly, Newton’s laws of motion are inherently applicable to the airplane's descent. According to Newton's first law, an object in motion continues in motion unless acted upon by an external force. As Mandy watches her airplane descend from high altitude, gravity is the unbalanced external force that causes the plane to accelerate downward. Newton's second law, F=ma (force equals mass times acceleration), describes how the gravitational force acting on the airplane results in an acceleration proportional to its mass.
Additionally, the scene involves the principle of gravity described by Newton. The airplane is accelerating toward Earth due to gravitational attraction, which Newton quantified as the universal law of gravitation. This law states that every mass attracts every other mass with a force proportional to their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. This explains why the airplane falls toward Earth in a predictable manner.
Optics, another classical physics domain, is exemplified by the observation of the Sun and Moon. Light from the Sun travels through space and reaches Earth, allowing Mandy to see the sunset. Newton’s work in optics, particularly his theory of light and color, explains how light behaves as it passes through Earth's atmosphere and interacts with objects, creating the phenomena of sunset and moonrise. The apparent position of the Sun and Moon is also influenced by atmospheric refraction, a classical optics principle where light bends as it passes through layers of air with varying densities.
Connections to Galileo and Newton’s Work
Galileo Galilei made significant contributions to the understanding of motion and celestial observations. His experiments with rolling balls and inclined planes demonstrated the consistency of acceleration due to gravity, which directly relates to Newton's later formalization of this concept. Galileo’s observation of the phases of Venus and improvements in telescope technology contributed to the heliocentric model of the solar system, further supported by Newtonian gravity and motion principles.
Newton’s laws extended Galileo's work by providing the quantitative framework for motion and gravity. Newton's law of universal gravitation explained why planets orbit the Sun and how objects fall under gravity on Earth. His Second Law elucidates how forces cause changes in motion, explaining the acceleration of the airplane during descent. Newton’s development of calculus also allowed for precise modeling of motion, which underpins much of classical mechanics.
Real-Life Applications of Newton and Galileo’s Theories
Beyond the realm of glasses and optics, Newton’s and Galileo’s principles influence many aspects of modern life. For instance, transportation relies heavily on Newtonian mechanics. Vehicles, including cars, airplanes, and rockets, depend on the laws of motion for design, safety, and operation. Newton’s second law helps engineers calculate the required acceleration and force needed for various speeds and movements. Similarly, the principle of gravity is essential in satellite technology, GPS systems, and space exploration, making these sciences vital for current technological advancements.
Galileo’s experiments with inertia and motion serve as the groundwork for understanding how objects respond to forces, which is crucial in engineering and physics education. For example, the concept of inertia underpins the safety features of automobiles, such as seatbelts and airbags, which are designed to manage the forces during sudden stops or collisions.
Conclusion
The scenario involving Mandy's descent encapsulates the core principles of classical physics, including Newtonian mechanics and optics. Newton's laws explain the motion of the airplane and the behavior of light that makes viewing celestial objects possible. Galileo’s pioneering work in understanding motion laid the foundation for Newton’s theories, both of which continue to deeply influence modern science and everyday life. From transportation safety to space travel, classical physics principles are integral to technological progress and our understanding of the universe.
References
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- Feynman, R. P., Leighton, R. B., & Sands, M. (2011). The Feynman Lectures on Physics. Addison-Wesley.
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