Available online
Description
This programme is a first introduction to the concepts of field and potential. Steve Swithenby (OU) introduces the programme, explaining that a contour map tells us all we need to know about the re...lationship between gradient and distance on a mountain. The programme is going to derive equally useful 'maps' for other physical systems. Shelagh Ross (OU) using a frictionless mass attached to a spring and strain guage, shows the relationship between force and energy in one dimension. Steve then extends these ideas to two dimensions, using three springs and strain guages combining to give a 'total' energy reading for a mass moving over a pane of glass. He builds up a potential map of the area, and then uses this map to predict the behaviour of the system. Shelagh shows us another map, programmed into a computer, and the variation of potential of a unit test charge leading to definitions of electrical potential and electric field. He then shows us an application of these ideas in electrostatic paint spraying. Shelagh models the path paint takes from spray-nozzle to target using the analogy of charged terminals forming pattern in lycopodium powder.
This programme is a first introduction to the concepts of field and potential. Steve Swithenby (OU) introduces the programme, explaining that a contour map tells us all we need to know about the re...lationship between gradient and distance on a mountain. The programme is going to derive equally useful 'maps' for other physical systems. Shelagh Ross (OU) using a frictionless mass attached to a spring and strain guage, shows the relationship between force and energy in one dimension. Steve then extends these ideas to two dimensions, using three springs and strain guages combining to give a 'total' energy reading for a mass moving over a pane of glass. He builds up a potential map of the area, and then uses this map to predict the behaviour of the system. Shelagh shows us another map, programmed into a computer, and the variation of potential of a unit test charge leading to definitions of electrical potential and electric field. He then shows us an application of these ideas in electrostatic paint spraying. Shelagh models the path paint takes from spray-nozzle to target using the analogy of charged terminals forming pattern in lycopodium powder.
| Module code and title: | S271, Discovering physics |
|---|---|
| Item code: | S271; 05 |
| First transmission date: | 05-05-1982 |
| Published: | 1982 |
| Rights Statement: | |
| Restrictions on use: | |
| Duration: | 00:25:00 |
| + Show more... | |
| Producer: | Nick Brenton |
| Contributors: | Shelagh Ross; Steve Swithenby |
| Publisher: | BBC Open University |
| Keyword(s): | Computer; Contour; Electrostatic; Field; Map; Paint spraying; Spring-mass system; Strain guage |
| Master spool number: | HOU3841 |
| Production number: | FOUS229H |
| Videofinder number: | 1784 |
| Available to public: | no |
