From the Classroom to Outer Space
II. The FUSE Satellite
Activity #2
|
Exploring Our Universe:
From the Classroom to Outer Space II. The FUSE Satellite Activity #2 |
WHEN WILL FUSE BURN?: USING REAL ORBIT DATA
| Level/Course: |
Grades 9 and up. Physics, Physical Science, Algebra
|
|---|---|
| Time Required: | One class period |
| Objectives: | (Science and Mathematics) Students will model orbit data with a linear
function, use their model to predict orbit decay time, and evaluate the
validity of their model.
(Science) Students will apply their understanding of gravity, Kepler’s Law of Periods, and the relationship between period and frequency to calculate a critical frequency for orbit decay. |
| Prerequisites: | Graphing, linear equations, scientific notation, and significant figures. |
| Materials: | Student activity sheet, graphing calculator OR graph paper, straight edge, and simple calculator. |
| Optional Materials: | Internet access. |
| Procedure: | (For group work)
1. After reading the first paragraph of the activity sheet, have each group submit a guess for the lifetime of FUSE. 2. Students complete calculations. 3. Have groups exchange results and return comments and corrections. 4. Ask the class to comment on the limitations of the model. |
| Discussion: |
This activity can be used in either a science class
or a mathematics class.In a science class, use it at the end of a unit
on gravity including Kepler’s laws.In an Algebra class, the activity can
be used at the end of a unit on linear functions. It would be a good assessment
instrument because it calls on so many skills. No physics background is
required if you provide students with the answer to the first calculation:
16.9 revolutions/day. Instructions for use of a graphing calculator are
given in Technology Note #1
|