Lesson 4: Thrust, Drag and Tension
Duration of Days: 3
Lesson Objective
Students will conceptualize thrust and drag as opposing forces applied to a moving body by a fluid. The drag formula will be introduced and proportionality to velocity will be identified. They will determine tensions using various tools, including geometry, by calculating it as a balancing force on an object.
What is thrust?
What type of fluids usually apply thrust?
What is drag?
Is the drag due to air or water greater? Why?
What types of objects can apply tension?
Must tension always be in the direction of other forces?
Drag
Resistance
Tension
GS3: Modeling
Students can construct and use models to represent and analyze phenomena and systems.
GS4: Data Analysis and Interpretation
Students can analyze and interpret scientific data and solve problems using a range of tools, technology and mathematical techniques.
This lesson shows students a new pair of forces that can affect and objects. Tension is the force applied by rope, chain, cable, etc. and is calculated by knowing other forces acting on the object. Drag is a negative force on an object in motion caused by friction with the particles of a fluid. The forces will be combined with other forces later in the unit.
DOK: 3-4
MPS Science Differentiation Strategies
https://tinyurl.com/5n6c24k7
Students will complete calculations and vector drawings to describe the tension and drag forces on an object.