An experiment on constant velocity that involves a whole class is described. Some pupils walk along a straight line while other pupils time their positions at fixed distances. The activity is performed in a gym using daily life materials and devices and requires less than one hour total time. […]
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, […]
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. […]
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. […]
In order to inquire about knowledge and awareness of young people about the risks connected with the uses of ionizing radiation, we have submitted to various groups of first year university students a questionnaire. Results obtained are examined, also on the light of the different types of secondary school previously attended. […]
A short history of the changes brought in secondary education in Italy by increased school autonomy, with special attention to their consequences on the teachers’ role when teaching physics. […]
Physics textbooks describe electromagnetic induction phenomena with the simple calculation rule called ‘flux law’ but Maxwell’s general law of electromagnetic induction law, based on the vector potential and invariant for Lorentz’s transformations, shows that the induced emf is the consequence of time variations of the vector potential and the motion of electric charges in a magnetic field. […]
Beyond his scientific works and lectures Enrico Fermi left a lot of simple ideas and suggestions that show his unique way of applying the procedures of one science to another science. His idea of using physics to solve the mathematical problem of estimating the value of a definite integral with a sheet of paper and a scale is described and applied to the simple case of estimating π. […]
We show how the illustrations of various natural phenomena visible in Google Earth can be used in school not only for teaching geography and geology but also for introducing the physics of waves. […]
Relativity theory is seldom presented to the Italian highschool pupils. During a Master in Didactics of Physics the author experimented teaching the fundamentals of the theory to adult students in a vocational highschool. The design, the implementation and the results of the experience are described and briefly discussed. […]