Physics is one of the fundamental subjects for Science students. One needs to score good in Physics to score well in any exam be it tests at school or entrance tests like IIT JEE, NEET etc.
Physics is more to understand than to learn or study. One who is able to undersatand the concepts analysing the real situations in his/her mind can easily reach the depth of physics.
Misconceptions
Lets start with the general misconceptions about the way in which we study physics. Students think that by mugging all the given formulae they can solve each and every problem. Further they assume that just doing a bunch of questions while the topic is being covered in the class shall make them thorough with the topic. They also expect the questions in exams to be almost the same to which they have worked upon sometime. My dear friends, we need to get over this misconceptions!!!
An Example
One has to have an art of solving problems after understanding the concept and by applying it well. Let me explain this by taking a question on Relative Motion. I am sure it would have troubled you at some point of time. Consider this question (the question as such is very easy, I want to go through the process of attempting it)
“A car moves at a constant speed of 40 kmph along a straight road towards a vertical wall. A fly, flying at a constant speed of 100 kmph starts from the wall towards the car at the instant when car is at 20 km away. After how much time the fly and car reach at same point.”
Lets now discuss a step by step way to solve this problem.
- First of all, draw a relevent rough sketch which comes to your mind after reading this question.
- Write down the concept by which we solve the problem.
- Do the calculations accurately and give the answer.
Going by above steps, solution would be as follows:
Physics question on relative motion
If we assume the car to be stationery, the fly would be approach the car with an speed which is equal to the the sum of its own speed and the speed of the car. This is equivalent to saying that we are calculating in frame of reference of the car.
So, Speed of fly relative to car= (100+40) km/h=140 km/h
Now, the time after which they are at same point = Distance/ speed
= (20/140) hour = 0.14285 hour (answer)
So my point is that we should be able to relate concepts right from the basics. Sometimes there are multiple concepts in a single question.
Do not hesitate to raise and clarify your doubts. You can have more fun in learning physics through discussions with teachers and friends.
Physics is Real
Physics is about the real world. Try applying your knowledge with everyday activities. The way ball bounces involves Physics. The reason why roads are banked has Physics behind it. Discuss with your friends about these things around you. The beauty of Physics is that there are real life examples in our everyday life.
Physics involves mathematics when it comes to problem solving part. And we cannot imagine physics without numerical because whatever we study has to be applied further. So calculations play a mojor role.
Tips to solves problems in Physics
- Draw diagrams to visualise the physical situation. They are not decoration but a tool to support and guide your thinking. A useful diagram is the centerpiece of a good explanation.
- Write down key concepts, principles, equations and assumptions.
- Often you can’t see the solution immediately. So work with what you know, looking for intermediate results or ideas that will lead to a solution.
- For numerical questions try to do the algebra first. Don’t substitute the numeric values until you have worked the problem algebraically. The algebraic solution gives you more insight than mere numbers. On the other hand, the numerical answer often gives you a good idea whether your procedure is right.
- The ‘Internet’ has certainly opened-up a host of possibilities and opportunities for extended learning. Try visiting various sites available to develop a passion and taste for the subject. This would not only widen your horizon but provide you a higher level of ‘built-in confidence’ about the subject. For instance, check out Eduflix Q&A forum
- Last but not the least, stick to a strict study plan wherein you give adequate time for your learning in a healthy environment.
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Have fun with physics and do share your tips and tricks about solving problems in physics in comments below.
good luck