Anno XLIX - n.3 - luglio/settembre 2016 A simple argument is given, showing that a revision of newtonian dynamics is necessarily required when you assume the principle of relativity as a general law of physics. The motion of a charged particle within a plane condenser (uniform electric field) is studied in two different reference frames, […]
Anno XXV - n.2 - aprile/giugno 1992 The classical pendulum experiment is discussed in order to show the approximations leading to possibly significant differences between theory and experiment. The way to minimize uncertainties in the data-taking procedure is also discussed. […]
Anno XXVI - n.1 - gennaio/marzo 1993 The Foucault pendulum can be an excellent teaching aid. For example, it can be used to measure the latitude of the place you live in. This article shows how the students and the entire population of a small village were involved in a physics experiment and discusses some modifications to the original design for an updated repetition of the experiment. […]
Anno L - n.4 - ottobre/dicembre 2017 We propose a new tool for laboratory curricula based on computer-aided data acquisition and analysis. A pendulum coupled to a low-friction rotary sensor offers variable length, variable mass, and two different kind of damping torque: “dynamic friction” (almost constant) and “viscous” friction proportional to the angular velocity. […]
Anno XXV - n.4 - ottobre/dicembre 1992 Following the pupils’ suggestions and curiosity it is sometimes possible to remove some of their preconceptions. […]
Anno XLIX - n.3 - luglio/settembre 2016 You can measure both the period and the amplitude of a simple pendulum “on the fly”, i.e. while it is swinging and slowing down. This was implemented years ago using a photogate connected to the serial port of a personal computer (which made the time measurements). […]