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 Problem, 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