phys scientific method and motion principles

Scientific Method

A systematic process used for problem-solving and scientific discovery.

Fact

A statement that can be proven true or false.

Law

A statement based on repeated experimental observations that describes some aspect of the universe.

Principle

A fundamental truth that serves as the foundation for a system of belief or behavior.

Theory

A well-substantiated explanation acquired through the scientific method, repeatedly tested and confirmed through observation and experimentation.

Hypothesis

An educated guess that can be tested through experimentation to support or contradict it.

Eratosthenes

A historical figure known for calculating the Earth's circumference using shadow measurements.

Aristarchus

An early scientist who performed measurements related to the Earth and celestial bodies.

Natural Motion

According to Aristotle, motion that results from the intrinsic nature of objects, such as a rock falling towards the Earth.

Violent Motion

According to Aristotle, motion that requires an external force, such as pushing a ship.

Inertia

An object's resistance to a change in its state of motion; the motion of an object to remain at rest or in uniform motion unless acted upon. Aka first law of motion.

Mass

The quantity of matter in an object, which determines its inertia and does not change regardless of location.

Weight

The measure of the gravitational force acting on an object's mass; it relies on both mass and gravitational pull.

Acceleration

The rate of change in velocity, which can include speeding up, slowing down, or changing direction.

Free Fall

The motion of an object when the only force acting upon it is gravity, neglecting air resistance.

Air Resistance

The forces acting opposite to the relative motion of an object as it moves through the air.

Weight Formula

The mathematical relationship where weight is determined by mass and gravity: W = m \times g.

Theoretical approach

Make a hypothesis based on observations

Gravity

Always acts downwards, constantly affecting motion of objects on earth

Exerting a force

The action of pushing or pulling an object (gravity and friction)

Vectors

Directionality of forces also plays a role in understanding forces