Problem-Solving Strategy in Physics

Problem-Solving Strategy in Physics

Read the Problem

What is the topic or concept in scenario? Visualize by drawing a picture (free-body diagram)

Write Given/Unknown Variables

Identify topic, concept and key words Units (need to convert?), Words (stop, rest, etc), Prefixes (need to expand), Constants

Is there a graph? Yes,... What is the title, axes labels, graph behavior (sloped, horizontal or curved) If linear, equation of a line (y = mx + b), slope (rise (change in y) over run (change in x))

Select Appropriate Equation

Review formulas in your formula chart for the scenario described in the problem Selectan equation that accommodates all given and unknown variables provided in the problem

Calculate

Use parenthses for calculations, particularly with fractions and values in scientific notation For angle calculations, e.g., trig functions, calculator should be in DEGREE MODE

Check Answer: Make Sense?

Based on the scenario and the values provided in the problem, does the answer make sense? Value is just part of a physics calculation - make sure units are consistent with the calculated variable