Physical Concepts Research Articles

Cronpes: time measurement device suitable for teaching experimental physics in Brazil

Abstract Several public schools and also universities in Brazil have few or none financial resources to acquire certain equipment for teaching physics. Nevertheless, it is extremely important that institutions, schools and universities offer laboratory conditions for the students, mainly in engineering courses, in order to get the first contact with physics concepts in practice. For this purposes, it was proposed to develop a simple construction, low-cost and easy maintenance photogate (Cronpes) device, so that teachers, technicians and even students from the basic and high education network can build them for their schools, institutions and universities, thus improving the quality of teaching physics. This study aims to implement a photogate Esp32 microcontroller based programmed in MicroPython with good resolution, accuracy and user friendly in order to apply in experiments like simple pendulum, spring oscillations and conservation of mechanical energy. The main focus of this research was to demonstrate, through the development of Cronpes, that we can create solutions for educational laboratories, in a viable, creative and inexpensive way.

Pressure never sucks, pressure only pushes: a physiological exploration of the pushing power of pressure.

The movement of air into and out of the lungs is facilitated by changes in pressure within the thoracic cavity relative to atmospheric pressure, as well as the resistance encountered by airways. In this process, the movement of air into and out of the lungs is driven by pressure gradients established by changes in lung volume and intra-alveolar pressure. However, pressure never sucks! The concept that pressure never sucks, pressure only pushes encapsulates a fundamental principle in the behavior of gases. This concept challenges common misconceptions about pressure, shedding light on the dynamic forces that govern the movement of gases. In this Illumination, we explore the essence of this concept and its applications in pulmonary ventilation. Pressure is one of the most important concepts in physics and physiology. Atmospheric pressure at sea level is equal to 1 atmosphere or around 101,325 Pascal [Pa (1 Pa = 1 N/m2)]. This huge pressure is pushing down on everything all the time. However, this pressure is difficult to understand because we do not often observe the power of this incredible force. We used five readily available, simple, and inexpensive demonstrations to introduce the physics and power of pressure. This extraordinarily complex physics concept was approached in a straightforward and inexpensive manner while still providing an understanding of the fundamental concepts. These simple demonstrations introduced basic concepts and addressed common misconceptions about pressure.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The concept that pressure never sucks, pressure only pushes challenges common misconceptions about pressure, shedding light on the dynamic forces that govern the movement of gases. In this Illumination, we will explore the essence of this concept and its applications in pulmonary ventilation. Specifically, we used five readily available, simple, inexpensive demonstrations to introduce the physics and power of pressure.

Path planning algorithm design using particle swarms optimization and artificial potential fields

AbstractOne of the most important challenges in an autonomous and robotics system is the path planning in which the system finds the optimal path from start point to goal point. The traditional path planning algorithms may have large memory requirements which scale with the size and resolution of the configuration space. To address these challenges, this paper introduces a novel path planning algorithm that combines Particle Swarm Optimization and Artificial Potential Field in the form of a path planning algorithm for mobile robots. The biological and physical concepts from Particle Swarm Optimization and Artificial Potential Field algorithms are combined to yield an algorithm which minimizes instances of getting stuck in local minima and generates a smooth but feasible path. The developed method requires memory which scales only with the number of particles and the time taken to reach the goal. This results in a memory‐efficient solution that generates smooth and feasible paths for mobile robots navigating in a 2D space.

Probing multi-mobility edges in quasiperiodic mosaic lattices

The mobility edge (ME) is a crucial concept in understanding localization physics, marking the critical transition between extended and localized states in the energy spectrum. Anderson localization scaling theory predicts the absence of ME in lower dimensional systems. Hence, the search for exact MEs, particularly for single particles in lower dimensions, has recently garnered significant interest in both theoretical and experimental studies, resulting in notable progress. However, several open questions remain, including the possibility of a single system exhibiting multiple MEs and the continual existence of extended states, even within the strong disorder domain. Here, we provide experimental evidence to address these questions by utilizing a quasiperiodic mosaic lattice with meticulously designed nanophotonic circuits. Our observations demonstrate the coexistence of both extended and localized states in lattices with broken duality symmetry and varying modulation periods. By single site injection and scanning the disorder level, we could approximately probe the ME of the modulated lattice. These results corroborate recent theoretical predictions, introduce a new avenue for investigating ME physics, and offer inspiration for further exploration of ME physics in the quantum regime using hybrid integrated photonic devices.

Model-agnostic neural mean field with a data-driven transfer function

As one of the most complex systems known to science, modeling brain behavior and function is both fascinating and extremely difficult. Empirical data is increasingly available from ex vivo human brain organoids and surgical samples, as well as in vivo animal models, so the problem of modeling the behavior of large-scale neuronal systems is more relevant than ever. The statistical physics concept of a mean-field model offers a tractable way to bridge the gap between single-neuron and population-level descriptions of neuronal activity, by modeling the behavior of a single representative neuron and extending this to the population. However, existing neural mean-field methods typically either take the limit of small interaction sizes, or are applicable only to the specific neuron models for which they were derived. This paper derives a mean-field model by fitting a transfer function called Refractory SoftPlus, which is simple yet applicable to a broad variety of neuron types. The transfer function is fitted numerically to simulated spike time data, and is entirely agnostic to the underlying neuronal dynamics. The resulting mean-field model predicts the response of a network of randomly connected neurons to a time-varying external stimulus with a high degree of accuracy. Furthermore, it enables an accurate approximate bifurcation analysis as a function of the level of recurrent input. This model does not assume large presynaptic rates or small postsynaptic potential size, allowing mean-field models to be developed even for populations with large interaction terms.

The Cosmos Is a Black Aesthetic

This essay begins with the premise that Evelynn Hammonds’s highly cited “Black (W)holes and the Geometry of Black Female Sexuality” provides a reading strategy that has largely been ignored by subsequent scholarship. This work theorizes science as a Black episteme and addresses space-time as a self-reading strategy and an exemplar for how scientific analogies can illuminate analyses in Black thought. It problematizes the uptake of physical ideas without taking care to understand those physical concepts in conversation with Black scientists. The author shows how Black queer thought can and should inform the creation of intellectual links between Black scientific thinkers and Black thought outside of science.

Ethnophysics Analysis of Traditional Patil Lele Game: Unveiling Physics Concepts in Local Wisdom

Local wisdom is integral to a community's cultural identity, encapsulating knowledge, values, and practices passed down through generations. The traditional game of Patil Lele, rich in cultural significance, also serves as a valuable educational tool for exploring fundamental physics concepts. This study aims to analyze the physics principles inherent in the Patil Lele game and identify optimal techniques for achieving maximum throwing distance. The research used a quantitative descriptive method; Data were collected through interviews and observations and supported by a thorough literature review. The findings reveal that the game embodies key physics concepts, including parabolic motion, Newton's laws, the moment of force, momentum, and impulse. Moreover, three effective techniques for enhancing throwing distance were identified. This research underscores the importance of applying physics concepts to enhance traditional games, enriching educational value and preserving cultural heritage.

Ethnophysics of Klepon: Exploring Physics Concepts in Traditional Pasuruan Snack

Local wisdom plays a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage and embedding scientific knowledge within traditional practices. This study explores the physics concepts inherent in the traditional process of making Klepon, a local snack from Pasuruan, and examines the community's response to this cultural practice. Using a qualitative descriptive research method, the study gathered in-depth data to uncover the underlying physical principles and societal perceptions. The findings reveal that making traditional Klepon involves key physics concepts such as pressure, phase changes, temperature, heat, and Archimedes' principle. Additionally, the research indicates the positive reception of these traditional snacks by the local community and consumers. The study concludes that the preparation of Klepon embodies significant physics concepts and that there is strong community support for the preservation and continued development of this cultural heritage.

DEVELOPING A LOCALIZED OPTIMAL FLOOD BARRIER IN THE PHILIPPINES

In the Philippines, flood is a usual experience due to its geographical location near the equator. This calls for governmental units to establish flood control protocols that utilize equipment to effectively mitigate the impact of the floods. However, the existing protocols lack proper equipment integrated in their flood protocols that effectively handle flood occurrences. This research aims to improvise the current practices of the Philippine local government units in combating flood by proposing the optimal flood barrier design to be deployed for flood control and damage mitigation and investigate the optimal flood barrier for deployment. The methodology involves revisiting operational manuals of the target community of the Philippine governmental units and exploring existing flood barrier designs in literature and the market, whether in or out of the Philippines. Barriers designed in the literature and market were investigated, where there is a physical experiment conducted for the optimal design using physics concepts and past tests performed by studies. Results demonstrated the amount of force that can be resisted by the barriers, the amount of flood water until it floats, and the maximum velocity until barriers move. This is the first study to investigate the designs of flood barriers that are suitable for deployment and selects the optimal barrier for flood control for the Philippine setting while integrating it to the Philippine flood protocols. This research will be valuable to studies in regards with flood emergency disaster management planning.

Need Analysis of E-module Based on the Theory of Conceptual Change in Earth and Space Material for Class X of Vocational School in the Sumatra

This research examined the need for developing E-modules based on the Theory of Conceptual Change in physics education, with a focus on the topic of Earth and Space Sciences. Research method is quantitative descriptive The results of the questionnaire analysis involving teachers in 7 provinces, namely South Sumatra, West Sumatra, North Sumatra, Bengkulu, Jambi, Bangka Belitung Islands, Riau and students in 6 provinces, namely South Sumatra, West Sumatra, Bengkulu, Jambi, Bangka Belitung Islands, Riau shows that the average use of E-modules is still limited in schools, namely 42%, while an average of 70% of students stated that they had difficulty understanding physics concepts, especially those related to Earth and Space Sciences. Therefore, 100% of teachers and 88% of students agree that the development of E-modules based on Conceptual Change Theory needs need to do.

Development of Student Worksheets Based on Problem Based Learning (PBL) Assisted by PhET Simulations to Improve Mastery of High School Physics Concepts

This development research aims to produce a product in the form of a Student Workshees (known LKPD) based on a problem-based learning model that is feasible, practical and effective for improving students' mastery of concepts. This research is included in Research and Development (R&D) with a 4D model, which consists of defining, designing, developing, and disseminating. The product developed is Newton's Law LKPD supported by other independent curriculum tools: Learning Outcomes, Learning Goal Flow, Teaching Modules, and concept mastery test instruments. Data collection techniques use validation sheets, learning implementation observation sheets, student response questionnaires, and test instruments. The validity of the product was assessed by three expert validators, who were physics lecturers, and three practitioner validators, who were physics subject teachers. Their evaluations were performed using a Likert scale. Practicality is obtained from the teacher's observation sheet and student response questionnaires regarding learning. Effectiveness was obtained from the results of limited product trials in the form of an increase in pretest and posttest scores, which were analyzed using the n-gain test. The results of the validity of the product developed have a percentage, namely LKPD 92.12%; Learning Achievement 92.08%; Flow of Learning Objectives 92.60%; Teaching modules 89.78% and test instruments 91.15% with very valid and reliable categories above 75%, so the product can be said to be suitable for use. The results of the product's practicality were in the form of an implementation sheet by the teacher. Student responses of 92.08% and 82.10% were written in the convenient category. The results of the n-gain test for students' concept mastery were 0.74 in the medium category and included in the very effective criteria. Thus, the LKPD, Learning Outcomes, Learning Goal Flow, Teaching Modules and test instruments produced are feasible, practical and effective in improving students' mastery of concepts.

The Theory of Relativity (K)

The proposed article is a new alternative version of the Theory of Relativity. The version is based on the concepts of classical Newtonian physics and does not deny the existing calculation base. The proposed theory completely denies Einstein's existing Theory of Relativity. The only thing that connects these theories is that the proposed theory is also built on postulates. The proposed theory is intended to establish the foundation of classical Newtonian physics. The proposed theory is intended to establish continuity in the development of the fundamentals of physics and is intended to eliminate all kinds of speculation in explanations of physical phenomena. An example of such speculation is Einstein's Theory of Relativity (E).

Inquisition of optical soliton structure and qualitative analysis for the complex-coupled Kuralay system

This study seeks to explore the integrable dynamics of induced curves through the utilization of the complex-coupled Kuralay system. The importance of the coupled complex Kuralay equation lies in its role as a fundamental model that contributes to the understanding of intricate physical and mathematical concepts, making it a valuable tool in scientific research and applications. The soliton solutions originating from the Kuralay equations are believed to encapsulate cutting-edge research in various important domains such as optical fibers, nonlinear optics, and ferromagnetic materials. Analytical techniques are employed to derive traveling wave solutions for this model, given that the Cauchy problem cannot be resolved using the inverse scattering transform. In the quest for solitary wave solutions, the extended modified auxiliary equation mapping (EMAEM) method is employed. We derive several novel families of precise traveling wave solutions, encompassing trigonometric, hyperbolic, and exponential forms. Moreover, the planar dynamical system of the concerned equation is created, all probable phase portraits are given, and sensitive inspection is applied to check the sensitivity of the considered equation. Furthermore, after adding a perturbed term, chaotic and quasi-periodic behaviors have been observed for different values of parameters, and multistability is reported at the end. Numerical simulations of the solutions are incorporated alongside the analytical results to enhance comprehension of the dynamic characteristics of the solutions obtained. This study’s outcomes can offer valuable insights for addressing other nonlinear partial differential equations (NLPDEs). The soliton solutions obtained in this study offer important insights into the intricate nonlinear equation being examined.

CHATGPT IN TEACHING PHYSICS HANDS-ON EXPERIMENTS IN PRIMARY SCHOOL

This study explores the incorporation of artificial intelligence, specifically ChatGPT, to enhance the teaching of physics to primary school students. Using AI-driven simulations and interactive learning activities, the research demonstrates how these tools can convert abstract physics concepts into concrete educational experiences. The results suggest that ChatGPT promotes student involvement, inquisitiveness, and analytical thinking by offering personalized feedback and encouraging practical learning tasks. ChatGPT also significantly contributes to nurturing a positive attitude towards learning physics. ChatGPT helps students overcome the perceived challenges of the subject by providing instant feedback and clarification on physics principles, fostering a more enjoyable learning experience. The investigation underscores the importance of connecting theoretical understanding with real-world application through AI-supported experiments, reinforcing comprehension and nurturing a deeper understanding of the natural world. Additionally, the paper emphasizes the necessity for continuous evaluation of student engagement and academic achievements to gauge the impact of AI in the educational field. This ongoing assessment is crucial for understanding AI's effectiveness in education and making informed decisions about its future use. The study also addresses moral considerations related to data privacy and algorithm biases, highlighting the crucial need for ethical AI deployment in educational contexts. By stressing the importance of ethical AI deployment, the study aims to reassure the audience about the responsible use of technology in education. In conclusion, the study asserts that when integrated thoughtfully, ChatGPT can greatly enhance the educational environment, making physics more accessible and enjoyable for young students while preparing them for future scientific pursuits.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0770/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Dynamics of productive confirmation framing in an introductory lab

In introductory physics laboratory instruction, students often expect to confirm or demonstrate textbook physics concepts. This expectation is largely undesirable: labs that emphasize confirmation of textbook physics concepts are generally unsuccessful at teaching those concepts and even in contexts that do not emphasize confirmation, such expectations can lead to students disregarding or manipulating their data in order to obtain the expected result. In other words, when students expect their lab activities to confirm a known result, they may relinquish epistemic agency and violate disciplinary practices. We present a contrasting case where, we claim, confirmatory expectations can actually support productive disciplinary engagement. In this case study, we analyze the complex dynamics of students’ epistemological framing in a lab where students’ confirmatory expectations support and even generate epistemic agency and disciplinary practices, including developing original ideas, measures, and apparatuses to apply to the material world. Published by the American Physical Society 2024

Digital Transformation Strategy Towards Insurance 4.0: Case Study of PT Reinsurance ABC

The advancement of technology has brought significant impacts to the world of education, opening opportunities for the development of more engaging and innovative learning methods. The utilization of technology, especially in science education such as physics, enables the presentation of material in a visual, interactive, and concrete manner. One of the recent breakthroughs is the concept of Motion Dynamic Metaverse (MD-Verse), which adds a new dimension to physics learning through virtual environments. With its interactive features, MD-Verse provides a dynamic and enjoyable learning experience. This research aims to develop Metaverse Teaching Materials on the topic of dynamics of motion for college students. Validation results indicate that MD-Verse is suitable for use in physics teaching, contributing to enhancing students' understanding and interest in physics concepts.

Perspective: towards real-time extreme ultraviolet to x-ray imaging and spectroscopy of laser-driven materials

Abstract Optical manipulation of light is a highly relevant concept in modern solid-state physics and its microscopic mechanisms are widely investigated. From this perspective, we discuss how x-ray and extreme ultraviolet pulses that probe a material during the time it is driven by optical light can deliver valuable microscopic details about electron dynamics.

Key motifs searching in complex dynamical systems

Key network motifs searching in complex networks is one of the crucial aspects of network analysis. There has been a series of insightful findings and valuable applications for various scenarios through the analysis of network structures. However, in dynamic systems, slight changes in the choice of dynamic equations and parameters can alter the significance of motifs. The known methods are insufficient to address this issue effectively. In this paper, we introduce a concept of perturbation energy based on the system’s Jacobian matrix, and define motif centrality for dynamic systems by seamlessly integrating network topology with dynamic equations. Through simulations, we observe that the key motifs obtained by the proposed energy method present better effective and accurate than them by integrating network topology methods, without significantly increasing algorithm complexity. The finding of key motifs can be used to apply for system control, such as formulating containment policies for the spread of epidemics and protecting fragile ecosystems. Additionally, it makes substantial contribution to a deeper understanding of concepts in physics, such as signal propagation and system’s stability.

Effectiveness of Virtual Labs for Physics Learning in Moroccan Secondary Schools

The teaching of physical sciences primarily relies on the use of experimental activities to explain the phenomena and physical concepts taught theoretically in class. Nevertheless, this conventional approach faces various challenges and problems, which limit its ability to achieve the different pedagogical objectives set by teachers. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of virtual laboratories (“VLABs”) as an alternative tool to traditional practices for teaching physics concepts in Moroccan secondary schools. The methodology followed in this study is quantitative and based on two questionnaires. The first is intended for teachers to evaluate the experimental activities on VLABs based on a socio-technical and pedagogical heuristic study and to verify their conformity with the expectations and characteristics of each type of learner according to the Felder-Silverman learning style preferences. The second was administered in the form of an evaluation to compare the performance of the control group with the experimental group that integrated the opportunities offered by the VLAB LABSTER. The results show that VLABs are not only comparable to conventional experimental activities in terms of applicability, ease of use, and effectiveness in achieving the learning objectives for which they were initially designated but surpass them in terms of performance, as evidenced by the significant improvement of the mean obtained by the group that integrated the experimental activities on the VLAB. Thus, VLABs can be used not only as an alternative to traditional experimental activities in distance learning but also as a viable option for potential adoption even in traditional face-to-face physics instruction.

Absence of quantum optical coherence in high harmonic generation

The optical phase of the driving field in the process of high harmonic generation and the coherence properties of the harmonics are fundamental concepts in attosecond physics. Here, we consider driving the process by incoherent classical and nonclassical light fields exhibiting an undetermined optical phase. With this, we introduce the notion of quantum optical coherence into high harmonic generation and show that high harmonics can be generated from incoherent radiation despite having a vanishing electric field. We explicitly derive the quantum state of the harmonics when driven by carrier-envelope phase unstable fields and show that the generated harmonics are incoherent and exhibit zero electric field amplitudes. We find that the quantum state of each harmonic is diagonal in its photon number basis, but nevertheless has the exact same photon statistics as the widely considered coherent harmonics. From this, we conclude that assuming coherent harmonic radiation can originate from a preferred ensemble fallacy. These findings have profound implications for attosecond experiments and how to infer the harmonic radiation properties. Published by the American Physical Society 2024