Context

Theoretical Introduction

Uniform rectilinear motion (MRU) is one of the fundamental concepts in physics, constituting the basis for understanding natural phenomena and various technological applications.

In MRU, an object moves in a straight line (rectilinear trace) at a constant speed, meaning the speed does not change over time (uniform trace). In technical terms, the acceleration in this motion is zero. In a graphical representation, MRU is represented by a straight line.

MRU is often described through the displacement versus time graph, where displacement is measured on the vertical axis and time on the horizontal axis. Since the speed is constant, the line representing the motion is straight and inclined, indicating the direct relationship between displacement and time.

Context

Uniform rectilinear motion is present in our daily lives and in various areas of science and technology. When we walk, run, or pedal at a constant speed and in a straight line, we are performing uniform rectilinear motion.

In technology, MRU is used in many fields. For example, in transportation engineering, displacement versus time graphs are commonly used to plan routes and schedules for trains and buses. In the industry, large-scale production is possible thanks to the knowledge of MRU and its graphs.

To delve deeper into the subject, I suggest using the book "Fundamentals of Physics: Mechanics - Volume 1" by Halliday, Resnick, and Walker. You can also check the website Brasil Escola which has several articles on the topic, as well as solved exercises that can help reinforce the content.

Practical Activity

Activity Title:

"Deciphering Motion: A Practical and Theoretical Analysis of Uniform Rectilinear Motion (MRU)"

Project Objective:

Enhance students' understanding of MRU and its graphs through an experimental activity, promoting teamwork, creativity, and communication.

Detailed Project Description:

Divided into groups of 3 to 5 students, you will carry out an experimental activity to observe the concept of MRU in practice. You will then collect data and produce graphs interpreting the results.

The project will be divided into three main stages:

1. Planning and Preparation: The group should research the topic, develop a hypothesis, and plan how the experiment will be conducted.

2. Execution and Data Collection: The group should conduct the experiment and collect the necessary data.

3. Analysis and Report: The group should analyze the collected data, produce graphs, and write a detailed report on the activity.

This project should be completed in an approximate period of 3 to 4 weeks, with each student dedicating more than twelve hours.

Required Materials:

1. A ruler of at least 1 meter in length.
2. A stopwatch (can be on the phone).
3. A small cart (can be a toy cart as long as it moves in a straight line).
4. A flat and uniform surface.

Detailed Step-by-Step for Activity Execution:

Planning and Preparation:

1. Research: Each group should conduct an in-depth research on MRU and how to graphically represent it. You should understand how time, speed, and distance relate in MRU.

2. Hypothesis Development: Based on your research, groups should formulate a hypothesis regarding the behavior of the cart in the experiment they will conduct.

Execution and Data Collection:

3. Experiment Execution: Using the ruler, measure a distance of 1 meter on the flat surface. Place the cart at the starting mark (0 cm) and move it to the final mark (100 cm) maintaining a constant speed. Use the stopwatch to measure the time it takes for the cart to cover the distance. Repeat this process several times to have a significant amount of data for analysis.

Analysis and Report:

4. Graph Construction: With the collected data, construct a distance versus time graph. The slope of the line on the graph will represent the cart's speed.

5. Report Elaboration: Write a detailed report on the practical activity carried out, including the following topics:

   • Introduction: Provide context on the topic, its relevance and real-world application, and the objective of this project.
   • Development: Explain the theory behind MRU, detail the activity, indicate the methodology used, and present and discuss the results obtained.
   • Conclusion: Summarize the main points, explain the learnings obtained, and draw conclusions about the project.
   • Bibliography: Indicate the sources you relied on to work on the project such as books, web pages, videos, etc.

The project submission will be done through the written report (including the graphs) and an oral presentation of the work done to the class. During the presentation, each group member should participate, showcasing their communication and collaboration skills.

This practical activity will promote a deep understanding of MRU and its graphical representations, as well as develop important skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, time management, and effective communication.