Mechanical Experiments with Images

• Grant number: 23/12128-3
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: October 01, 2024
• End date: September 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Physics
• Principal Investigator: Nora Lia Maidana
• Grantee: Nora Lia Maidana
• Host Institution: Instituto de Física (IF). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Agustín Adúriz Bravo ; Ewout ter Haar ; Monaliza da Fonseca ; Suelen Fernandes de Barros ; Vito Roberto Vanin

Abstract

The experiments with images proposed here seek to offer an experimental perspective to the teaching of abstract concepts of Physics, in order to enhance the teaching action. The experiments allocated on the Mechanical Experiments with Images (MEXI) page are based on a model-theoretical conception of science and use the resources of Digital Information and Communication Technologies to produce materials for carrying out physics teaching activities. For this, real systems are filmed in order to observe the movement of a body close to an instrument that facilitates the measurement of its position. From these videos, independent frames are extracted in the form of images, to which a time code is added that serves as a chronometer. From the positions occupied by the body at successive and known instants, measured in these images, the dynamic evolution of the system is studied. At www.fisfoto.if.usp.br, there are twenty-one experiments on translational and rotational movements, with laboratory and study guides. Several of these experiences were and are applied in disciplines of Mechanics, Data Processing and Laboratories in the Degree and Bachelor's Degree courses in Physics, in extension courses and congresses in the country and abroad, in addition to physics courses for High School. The experiments with images constitute a theme of research in the area of physics education, which has given rise to academic work. We propose to create new experiences related to Mechanics contents that have not yet been explored and give greater visibility to the environment, with the increase in the number of Laboratory guides with versions in English and Spanish. We will change the page to follow the evolution of the style of the web, which will make it easier for teachers to apply these experiences. (AU)