Mechanics

The study of forces and motion, kinematics, and projectiles.

Resources in this category:

Amusement Park Physics: What are the Forces Behind the Fun?
http://www.learner.org/exhibits/parkphysics/

This exhibit describes the physics behind different amusement park rides in basic terms. It discusses roller coasters, carousels, bumper cars, free fall rides, and pendulum rides. Activities demostrating the concepts are included, such as designing your own roller coaster. It also includes extra sections about ride safety and motion sickness. Additional resources, both web sites and printed materials, are provided.

ExploreLearning
http://www.explorelearning.com/

ExploreLearning offers a catalog of modular, interactive simulations in math and science, called "gizmos," which provided animated demonstrations of a wealth of physics and mathematics topics.

Hyperphysics
http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/hph.html

Hyperphysics presents the interrelationships between various fields of physics with explanations of key concepts. The site has been designed to be highly interactive, providing numerous visual and textual hyperlinks. Links to helpful tools are provided. Developed at Georgia State University.

Motion and Forces
http://pdg.lbl.gov/~aerzber/aps_motion.html

A collection of links to demonstrations and lessons to aid in understanding of the mechanics of forces and motion. Many other interesting physics links as well. Hosted by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

Newton's Laws of Motion
http://www.grc.nasa.gov/WWW/K-12/airplane/newton.html

A summary, discussion, and activities related to Newton's three Laws of Motion. Hosted by NASA, with many links to other projects and discussions.

The Physics Classroom
http://www.physicsclassroom.com/

The Physics Classroom includes a comprehensive and extensive online physics tutorial written for high school physics students.

The Physics Classroom (Glenbrook South High School)
http://www.glenbrook.k12.il.us/gbssci/phys/Class/BBoard.html

The Physics Classroom includes a comprehensive and extensive online physics tutorial written for high school physics students.

Science of Baseball
http://www.exploratorium.edu/baseball/

Designed by San Francisco's Exploratorium, this interactive site explains the "how" behind hitting, pitching, and protective equipment.

Waterworks
http://www.omsi.edu/visit/physics/ww/

"Fountains are fascinating, spilling water in soothing falls or incredible patterns, refreshing for the eyes and nerves. But what's hidden behind all this beauty? WaterWorks, a site devoted to fountains, explains their scientific side. You'll learn everything about the physics and engineering behind fountains, and perform experiments to deepen your knowledge of hydraulics. Having exercised your mind, you can soothe your soul by contemplating several famous fountains. And when body and mind are ready, you may wade in by creating your own fountain. It probably won't match the grace of Rome's Fontana di Trevi, but at least you'll have made one wish come true."

Eric Weisstein's World of Physics
http://scienceworld.wolfram.com/physics/

An electronic encyclopedia of physics topics, including numerous links, explanations, equations. Topics are searchable, or users can browse links.