For the lucky few, doing well in physics is indeed a talent. For others, however, getting good grades in physics takes a lot of hard work. Fortunately, by learning important basic skills and doing lots of practice, almost anyone can master their physics material. But even more important than getting a good score is the fact that by better understanding physics, you'll be able to explain the mysterious forces that control how the world works.
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Method 1 of 3: Understanding Basic Physics Concepts
Step 1. Remember the basic constants
In physics, certain forces, such as the acceleration due to gravity on the earth, are written in mathematical constants. This is just another way of saying that these styles are usually denoted by the same number, regardless of their location or how they are used. It's a smart idea to remember the most frequently used constants (and their units) - often, these constants won't be assigned to the test. Here are some of the most frequently used constants in physics:
- Gravity (on earth): 9.81 meters/second2
- Speed of light: 3×108 meters/second
- Molar gas constant: 8.32 joules/(mol × Kelvin)
- Avogadro's Number: 6.02 × 1023 per mole
- Planck's constant: 6.63 × 10-34 joule × second
Step 2. Remember the basic equations
In physics, the relationships between the many different forces that exist in the universe, are described using equations. Some of these equations are very simple, while others are very complex. Remembering the simplest equations and knowing how to use them is very important when solving simple or complex problems. Even difficult and confusing questions are often solved using a few simple equations or changing these simple equations to suit the situation. These basic equations are the easiest part of physics to learn, and if you know them well, chances are you'll know at least some of the tricky problems you're dealing with. Some of the most important equations are:
- Velocity = change of position/time lapse
- Acceleration = change in velocity/time lapse
- Final velocity = initial velocity + (acceleration × time)
- Force = mass × acceleration
- Kinetic energy = (1/2)mass × velocity2
- Work = displacement × force
- Power = change in work/time lapse
- Momentum = mass × velocity
Step 3. Learn the derivatives of basic equations
Remembering your simple equations is fine - understanding why these equations are used is another thing. If you can, take the time to learn how each basic physics equation is derived. This will give you a clearer understanding of the relationships between equations and allow you to solve a variety of problems. Since, in essence, you understand how this equation works, you will be able to use it more effectively than if it were just a rote memory in your mind.
For example, consider a very simple equation: Acceleration = change in velocity/time lapse, or a = delta(v)/delta(t). Acceleration is the force that causes the velocity of an object to change. If an object has an initial velocity v0 at time t0 and the final velocity v at time t, the object can be said to be accelerating because it changes from v0 be v. Acceleration doesn't happen instantly - no matter how fast, there will be a time lapse between when the object is moving at its initial velocity and when it reaches its final velocity. Thus, a = (v - v0/t - t0) = delta(v)/delta(t).
Step 4. Learn the math skills needed to solve physics problems
Mathematics is often said to be the language of physics. Becoming good at the basics of math is a great way to improve your ability to master physics problems. Some complex physics equations even require special mathematical skills (such as derivation or integrals) to solve. Here are some math topics that can help you solve physics problems, in order of complexity:
- Pre-algebra and algebra (for basic equations and problems look for the unknown)
- Trigonometry (for force diagrams, rotation problems, and angle systems)
- Geometry (for problems related to area, volume, etc.)
- Pre-calculus and calculus (to derive and integrate physics equations - usually high-level topics)
Method 2 of 3: Using a Score Enhancing Strategy
Step 1. Focus on the important information in each question
Physics problems often contain "distractions" - information that is not needed to solve the problem. When reading a physics problem, identify the information provided, then specify the information you want to find. Write down the equations you need to solve the problem, then enter any information in the problem on the appropriate variable. Ignore unneeded information as this can slow you down and make the right steps to solving the problem harder to find.
- For example, say we have to find the acceleration experienced by a car if its speed changes for two seconds. If the mass of the car is 1000 kilograms, it starts moving with an initial velocity of 9 m/s and a final velocity of 22 m/s, we can say that v0 = 9 m/s, v = 22 m/s, m = 1000, t = 2 s. As written above, the ordinary acceleration equation is a = (v - v0/t - t0). Note that this equation does not require the mass of the object, so we can ignore the information that the car has a mass of 1,000 kg.
- Thus, we will solve it as follows: a = (v - v0/t - t0) = ((22 - 9)/(2 - 0)) = (13/2) = 7, 5 m/s2
Step 2. Use the correct units for each question
Forgetting to put units in your answer or using the wrong units, are surefire ways to lose easy points. To ensure that you get full points for any problem you work on, be sure to write down the units for your answer with the correct units based on the type of information written. Some of the most frequently used units of measurement in physics are listed below - note that, as a general rule, physics problems almost always use metric/SI measurements:
- Mass: grams or kilograms
- Style: newton
- Speed: meters/second (sometimes kilometers/hour)
- Acceleration: meter/second2
- Energy/Work: joules or kilojoules
- Power: watts
Step 3. Don't forget the little things (like friction, obstacles, etc
). Physics problems are usually models of real situations - which simplify how things actually work to make the situation easier to understand. Sometimes, this means that forces that can change the final outcome of the problem (such as friction) are intentionally omitted from the problem. However, this is not always the case. If little things like this are not omitted from the problem and you have enough information to calculate them, be sure to use them, for the most accurate answers.
For example, say that a problem asks you to find the acceleration of a 5 kilogram block of wood on a smooth floor when pushed with a force of 50 newtons. Since F = m × a, the answer is probably very easy, just find the value of a in the equation 50 = 5 × a. However, in the real world, the frictional force will affect the object's thrust, of course reducing the thrust. Removing friction from the problem will result in an answer that makes the block accelerate slightly faster than it actually does
Step 4. Double-check your answers
Physics problems of average difficulty, can easily involve a lot of math. Mistakes in these calculations will result in your answer being incorrect, so pay close attention to your math calculations as you work on them, and if you have time, double-check your answers at the end of the day to make sure your calculations are correct.
While re-doing your work is one way to check your math calculations, you may also want to use common sense to relate your problems to real life as a way to check your answers. For example, if you are trying to find the momentum (mass × velocity) of an object moving forward, you do not expect a negative answer because mass cannot be negative and velocity is only negative if it is in the negative direction (that is, against the forward direction in your frame of reference).). Thus, if you get a negative answer, then you may have made a calculation error somewhere
Method 3 of 3: Doing Your Best in Physics Class
Step 1. Read the topic before class
Ideally, you won't encounter any new physics concepts in your first class. However, try reading the next lesson in your textbook the day before the topic is covered in class. Don't get hung up on the correct math on the topic - at this stage, focus on understanding general concepts and trying to understand what's being discussed. This will give you a solid foundation of knowledge on which you will be able to apply the math skills you will learn in class.
Step 2. Pay attention while in class
During class, the teacher will explain the concepts you came across as you read earlier and explain any parts of the material that you don't quite understand. Take notes and ask lots of questions. Your teacher will probably explain the math on the topic. While he's at it, try to imagine a general picture of what's going on, even if you don't remember the exact derivatives for each equation - having this kind of feeling about materials, is a very good asset.
If you still have questions after class, talk to your teacher. Try to explain your question in as much detail as possible - this will show the teacher that you are listening. If the teacher isn't busy, he or she may be able to schedule a meeting to discuss the material with you and help you understand it
Step 3. Review your notes at home
To complete your studies and improve your physics knowledge, take a few moments to review your notes as soon as you have the opportunity at home. Doing this will help you remember the knowledge you gained from class that day. The longer you wait to review it after you've jotted it down, the harder it will be for you to remember and the more unfamiliar the concepts will feel, so be active and remember your knowledge by reviewing your notes at home.
Step 4. Complete the practice questions
Like math, writing, or programming, solving physics problems is an ability of the mind. The more often you use this ability, the easier it will be to complete it. If you struggle with physics, be sure to have plenty of practice problems solving. This will not only prepare you for the test, but will help you make many concepts clearer as you review the material.
If you're not satisfied with your score in physics, don't be content with just using the questions you used for your homework as practice. Try to solve problems that you don't normally come across - these may be problems in your textbook that weren't assigned to you, free online questions, or even questions in physics practice books (usually sold at retailers). textbook shop)
Step 5. Use the help resources available to you
You shouldn't try to learn a difficult physics lesson alone - depending on your school situation, there may be many ways to ask for help. Seek help and use whatever resources you need to better understand your physics material. Although some sources of aid will cost money, some students have at least three options available to them. Here are some ideas on who and what to look for if you need physics help:
- Your teacher (through after-school meetings)
- Your friends (through group study and homework sessions)
- Tutors (either hired private tutors or part of a school program)
- Third party resources (such as physics books, educational websites like Khan Academy, etc.)
Tips
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Concentrate on the concept.
Form a picture in your mind of what happened.
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Develop your math skills.
Physics at a high level is mostly applied mathematics, especially calculus. Make sure you know how to make integrals and then solve them by substitution or partials.
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When solving problems, pay attention to the details.
Do not forget to include friction in the calculation or use the moment of inertia about the correct axis.
