Science Struck: Static Friction vs. Kinetic Friction: The Differences

Ron Toomer, a famous roller coaster designer, suffered from motion sickness. Pupils design their own roller coasters, learning about potential and kinetic energy in the process. Labs focus on the importance of drop height, energy...

Why is it easier to move a heavy object once you initially begin? Help your class explore the differences and similarities between static and kinetic friction as they view the informative video segment about motion. They learn about each...

The focus of this chemistry video is kinetics, which is a study of exactly what happens to compounds when they react together. Specifically, kinetics is a study of the rate of chemical reactions, and what forces affect that rate. Sal...

Many mechanical phenomena are explained by a physics professor using Nick Goepper, a Winter Olympics 2014 slope-style skier, as the model. Beginning with kinetic and potential energy, the professor goes on to explain angular momentum and...

Physics plays a role in most sports, and curling is no exception! A video explains how a curling team controls the friction between the stone and the ice to modify its movement.

Get on the right track! Young scholars learn about the importance of momentum and friction during a bobsled ride. A video lesson speaks to a bobsled designer to explain how he considers the physics during the design process.

Speed skaters, hockey players, and ice skaters each have skates created specifically for their sports—an interesting fact for your Olympic Games fans! An engaging lesson explores the engineering design of different types of ice...

How much pulling force does it take to overcome static friction? The simulation applies the formula for the force of static friction to multiple trials. Scholars alter the pulling force applied until the box moves. They then determine...

What a thrilling job for an engineer: designing advanced athletic competition suits! Which materials can most reduce friction and drag, and yet still be flexible enough to move with the athlete's body? With attention focused on Shani...

Take a shot at explaining the physics of hockey! Olympic hockey players explain the science of their craft in a video lesson. The lesson includes a discussion of force and velocity as well as potential and kinetic energy.