Module 1 Kinematics

Content Focus

Here we will explore motion in both one and two dimensions using equations of motion and key concepts of displacement, velocity, acceleration and measured time.

"Motion is a fundamental observable phenomenon. The study of kinematics involves describing, measuring and analysing motion without considering the forces and masses involved in that motion. Uniformly accelerated motion is described in terms of relationships between measurable scalar and vector quantities, including displacement, speed, velocity, acceleration and time.

"Representations – including graphs and vectors, and equations of motion – can be used qualitatively and quantitatively to describe and predict linear motion.

"By studying this module, students come to understand that scientific knowledge enables scientists to offer valid explanations and make reliable predictions, particularly in regard to the motion of an object. "

NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) (2017), Physics Stage 6 Syllabus, p. 36.

Biblical Perspective

God is the author also of both the physical world and of logic. His creation totally depends upon God not just for its origin but also for its continued existence, as the Bible says, "He upholds the universe by the word of his power" (Hebrews 1:3). The Bible speaks clearly of an all-knowing, all-powerful God who leaves nothing to chance: "The lot is cast in the lap, but the decision is wholly from the Lord" (Proverbs 16:33). A study of kinematics enables us to better appreciate the wonderful world that God has created, as well as the Creator Himself. The study of motion starts with observations of the changes of an object's position. To make sense of a list of observations we next try to fit the observations to a simple mathematical formula. This allows us to more easily describe, analyse and predict the motion.

For more on a Biblical Perspective of Dynamics, click here.

Reference: https://reformation.edu/scripture-science-byl/pages/02-perspective-on-physics.htm

A full presentation of A Biblical Perspective of Physics is in the YouTube video below. Enjoy!

Inquiry Questions

Motion in a Straight Line

How is the motion of an object moving in a straight line described and predicted?

Motion on a Plane

How is the motion of an object that changes its direction of movement on a plane described?