From the Classroom to Outer Space
II. The FUSE Satellite
Activity #1
|
Exploring Our Universe:
From the Classroom to Outer Space II. The FUSE Satellite Activity #1 |
FUSE IN ORBIT: AN EXAMPLE OF CIRCULAR MOTION
Notes to the Teacher
| Level: | Grades 9 and up. Physics, Physical Science, Astronomy. |
|---|---|
| Time Required: | One class period. |
| Objectives: | Students will model satellite motion; test the relationship between centripetal force, speed, and radius for uniform circular motion; calculate the force on a satellite and satellite speed; and explain why satellites stay in orbit. |
| Prerequisites: | Algebraic operations on expressions, scientific notation, Newton's Laws of Motion, force and acceleration as vectors. |
| Materials: | Student activity sheet, rubber stopper -2 hole bored, string, safety glasses, scientific calculator, a balance to mass the stopper, set of masses (ranging from about 50 g to 1 kg) or a 20 N spring scale. |
| Optional Student Materials: | FUSE
model sheet, scissors, glue, and tape.
The FUSE model can be downloaded from the web and printed. |
| Optional Demonstration Materials: |
Bucket partially filled with water.
Looped track demonstrator with steel
ball.
|
| Procedures: |
|
| Discussion: | This activity can be used to introduce circular motion or as a culminating application activity at the end of a unit on circular motion or gravity. The exercise asks students to make both qualitative observations and quantitative measurements and to consider both the magnitude and direction of the centripetal force. They are also asked to judge whether or not their calculated answers are reasonable. Constructing the FUSE model takes about 15 minutes and it will not "fly" as easily as a cork. However, making the model forces students to think about the components of an actual satellite and trying to make it move in a circle will point out the difference between idealized and real problems. |
