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Films On Demand: 20-Minute Guides: 20 Minutes on Physics

Stuck for a research topic? Try these short videos that will help you to choose a topic of interest.

Physics in Bridge Design

In "Physics in Bridge Design," science teacher "climbs onto the framework of a bridge to point out the laws of physics at work in the bridge design and in the equipment used by rappellers and climbers." This is part of a program called "Why Physics," a film that "...goes on a fast-paced road trip to answer the 'Why Physics' question. Journeying across the American Southeast, a host investigates the role of physics in our daily lives, as viewers gain an appreciation for the fundamental concepts and principles revealed by the people and places along the way."

Physics and Faith

Science, including physics, and faith have clashed over the centuries. Produced by the University of Notre Dame, this film discusses the Papal Statement on evolution and other aspects of how religion has encountered scientific beliefs. This section, "Conflict Between Science and Faith," tells of when Galileo faced punishment for his contention that the Bible was not to be taken literally.

The Physics of Collisions

"Collisions occur around us constantly," says the film The Physics of Collisions. "To know how objects behave when they collide, an understanding of some important concepts of physics is needed. This clip features many examples of collisions and examines how applying Newton’s Laws of Motion and principles of energy as well as measuring variable quantities enable us to understand and predict the behavior of colliding objects. It is an ideal resource for senior-level physics students."

Physics in Baseball

A favorite game, a fun day out, a source of nostalgia...baseball is all these, but it also provides a fascinating look at physics in action. In "The Pitch," one section of a film that looks also looks at the hit, the run, and the flight, " filmmakers look at how "Three forces control a pitched baseball's trajectory at the release: gravity, air drag, and the Magnus force. The effects of these forces on a curveball are demonstrated."