Teaching Physics with the Physics Suite

Edward F. Redish

Home | Action Research Kit| Sample Problems | Resources | Product Information

Problems Sorted by Type | Problems Sorted by Subject | Problems Sorted by Chapter in UP

Tourque-ing about intuition

When we create a new physics concept or principle that is represented by an equation, in some cases the equation corresponds closely to common-sense intuitions, while in other cases the equation seems rather arbitrary and indirectly related to experience. Does the equation for torque correspond to common sense, or is it one of those more arbitrary equations?

  1. Give a mathematical definition of torque.
  2. Explain why you think the equation is either intuitive or counterintuitive. As part of your explanation discuss a relevant personal experience or experiment.


Not finding what you wanted? Check the Site Map for more information.

Page last modified November 13, 2004: R22