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A st. Vincent college exam for the introduction to physics course, focusing on problems related to displacement, velocity, acceleration, and force. Students are required to answer questions about sled runs, rocket motors, and scientific theories, applying concepts of physics such as newton's laws and the scientific method.
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St. Vincent College PH 103: Introduction to Physics
The exam consists of 6 questions. There will be 50 minutes to complete the exam. The questions may not be worth the same number of points, so read the entire exam before beginning work. Put your name on all pages.
Problem 1 20
Problem 2 10 Problem 3 20
Problem 4 20 Problem 5 20 Problem 6 10
Total 100
vf = vi + at xf − xi = vit + (1/2)at^2 xf − xi = (1/2)(vi + vf )t v^2 f = v i^2 + 2a(xf − xi)
a) (5 pts) What is his displacement when he reaches the end of the sled run?
b) (5 pts) Compute his average velocity during the trip.
c) (5 pts) You notice that if you start at the same point, but aim a little to the left, there is another path down the hill that is very twisty and has a few steep drops, but ends at exactly the same point. Again, starting from rest, you aim your sled this way and take off. What is your displacement upon reaching the end point?
d) (5 pts) After the two exciting sled runs, you both take your time walking back up the hill (it takes an additional 15 minutes). What is the average velocity for your brother over the entire trip (from top to bottom and then back up again)?
a) (10 pts) Is the scientific method the only means with which to acquire knowledge? Briefly explain.
b) (10 pts) Someone presents you with what they claim to be a scientific theory and would like your input. Yet their theory makes no predictions. How would you respond to them?
a) (10 pts) How far does she land (horizontally) from the edge of the cliff behind the berry bush?
b) (10 pts) From what height did she fall?
a) (10 pts) Comment on the idea of “scientific consensus.” Some things you might want to consider are: Is it a part of the scientific method? Is a consensus of scientists required in order to provide support for a scientific theory? Is/has/have there been anything on which the “scientific consensus” is/was, in fact, wrong? How is scientific knowledge actually obtained?
b) (10 pts) A national magazine proposes that, in order to save money in today’s economic climate, families should eat out less. Estimate the yearly loss to the restaurant industry nationwide if just one in ten families stops eating out. State what values you obtained by “educated guess” and show the process you use to come up with your final answer.
