Forces and Motion: Dynamics

• FMV.01 analyse the motion of objects in horizontal, vertical, and inclined planes, and predict and explain the motion with reference to the forces acting on the objects;

• FMV.02 investigate motion in a plane, through experiments or simulations, and analyse and solve problems involving the forces acting on an object in linear, projectile, and circular motion, with the aid of vectors, graphs, and free-body diagrams;

• FMV.03 analyse ways in which an understanding of the dynamics of motion relates to the development and use of technological devices, including terrestrial and space vehicles, and the enhancement of recreational activities and sports equipment.

Specific Expectations

Understanding Basic Concepts

By the end of this course, students will:

• FM1.01  define and describe the concepts and units related to dynamics (e.g., inertial and noninertial frames of reference);
• FM1.02  analyse and predict, in quantitative terms, and explain the linear motion of objects in horizontal, vertical, and inclined planes;
• FM1.03  analyse and predict, in quantitative terms, and explain the motion of a projectile with respect to the horizontal and vertical components of its motion;
• FM1.04  analyse and predict, in quantitative terms, and explain uniform circular motion in the horizontal and vertical planes with reference to the forces involved;
• FM1.05  distinguish between inertial and accelerating (non-inertial) frames of reference, and predict velocity and acceleration in a variety of situations;
• FM1.06  describe Newton’s law of universal gravitation, apply it quantitatively, and use it to explain planetary and satellite motion.

Developing Skills of Inquiry and Communication

• FM2.01  analyse experimental data, using vectors, graphs, trigonometry, and the resolution of vectors into perpendicular components, to determine the net force acting on an object and its resulting motion;
• FM2.02  carry out experiments or simulations involving objects moving in two dimensions, and analyse and display the data in an appropriate form (e.g., investigate the motion of objects on a horizontal or inclined plane; or the motion of projectiles);
• FM2.03  predict the motion of an object, and then design and conduct an experiment to test the prediction (e.g., verify predictions for such quantities as the time of flight, range, and maximum height of a projectile);
• FM2.04  investigate, through experimentation, the relationships among centripetal acceleration, radius of orbit, and the period and frequency of an object in uniform circular motion; analyse the relationships in quantitative terms; and display the relationships using a graph.

Relating Science to Technology, Society, and the Environment

• FM3.01 describe, or construct prototypes of, technologies based on the concepts and principles related to projectile and circular motion (e.g., construct a model of an amusement park ride and explain the scientific principles that underlie its design; explain, using scientific concepts and principles, how a centrifuge separates the components of blood);
• FM3.02 analyse the principles of dynamics and describe,with reference to these principles, how the motion of human beings, objects, and vehicles can be modified (e.g., analyse the physics of throwing a baseball; analyse the frictional forces acting on objects and explain how the control of these forces has been used to modify the design of objects such as skis and car tires).