12/12 MS Physics update and homework due 12/19

Hi folks,

Today we wrapped up our unit on Newton's Laws by putting them to good use.  The students had a challenge this week to create the fastest balloon powered vehicle that they could.  It was quite a tricky challenge but everyone gave it a good shot and we saw some really nice designs.  

For homework this week, I want you to think about the car that was made in class and write, at least, one sentence describing how the following physics concepts applied to your car.  (Some of the answers may seem redundant but I want to make sure you consider certain things about the balloon cars.)

1. What did inertia have to do with your car?

2.  Apply Newton's second law to the car? (Be sure to use F, M and A in your answer.)

3.  Apply Newton's second law again, in a different way.  (Be sure to use F, M and A in your answer.)

4. What did mass have to do with the Ballon Car Challenge?

5. How did Newton's 3rd law relate to the baloon car?

6.  Name 3 places where friction played a role with today's race?

7.  If you had a chance to do this again, what would you change to make your car faster?

8.  What was the force that caused your balloon to move?

9. Why was it important that your car be light?

10.  Tell me two times where the balloon car accelerated?  Remember, acceleration is speeding up, slowing down or changing direction.