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Beginner's
Guide to Aerodynamics
Determining Center of Gravity
LEVEL
1
Subject
Area(s):
Physics, Algebra II
Grade
Level: 11-12
National
Standards:
Science
- Complete calculations
involving the structure and properties of matter.
Mathematics
- Use tables and
graphs as tools to interpret expressions, equations, and inequalities.
- Represent problem
situations using discrete structures such as finite graphs, matrices,
sequences, and recurrence relations.
Technology
- Research Tools
- Use content-specific tools, software and simulations (e.g., environmental
probes, graphing calculators, exploratory environments, Web tools)
to support learning and research.
- Problem-Solving
and Decision-Making Tools - Routinely and efficiently use on-line
information resources to meet needs for collaboration, research, publications,
communications, and productivity.
Objective:
- After reading an
explanation from a NASA Web-based textbook, you will demonstrate an
understanding of the text by applying it to the calculation of the airplane's
center of gravity.
Beginners Guide to
Aerodynamics is a "textbook" of information prepared at NASA Glenn Research
Center to help you better understand aerodynamics. Click
Beginner's
Guide Index to access the list of slides. Open the slide called
Determining
Center of Gravity (with text) and read the explanation on how
an airplane in flight will rotate about a point in the airplane called
the center of gravity. Then using the information shown at Determining
Center of Gravity Activity, complete the problem designed to demonstrate
your ability to calculate the center of gravity using the discrete form
of the center of gravity equation.
Assessment:
- You, or you and
your partner(s), will be evaluated on the accuracy or feasibility of
your answers.
-
Evaluation:
- You will demonstrate
the ability to use information found on the World Wide Web to learn
how to calculate a center of gravity.
Submitted
by:
Monroe Kennedy
Jr., Ph.D., Shaker Heights High School, Shaker Heights, Ohio
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