Physics Concepts Blast Off with Rocket Launches

Upper School physics students recently experienced the principle of energy conservation and equations of motion as science teachers George Austin and Elizabeth Druger led them to the mid-point of our turf field to launch model rockets.

Prior to the launches, students learned to use the mass of the rocket along with the published value for the acceleration and burn time of the rocket engines in the physics equations they have been working with to calculate the theoretically maximum height of the rockets. They also personalized their rockets with designs, illustrations, stickers and more.

Once they launched their rockets, students reviewed experimental data of the maximum height using altimeters launched at the rockets and examined the effects of air resistance on their rocket’s flight. Students then used this information to discuss the reasons for differences between the theoretical and experimental values.

In reflecting upon the success of this piece of curriculum, Austin shared, “Students find it surprising and memorable that something they built is able to do something so dramatic when the rockets lift off. Then, when they are able to analyze the physics of the launch, the takeaway is a greater appreciation of how powerful the physics equations can be. Students’ self-confidence increases when they realize that they can do rocket science after all!”

Austin concluded, “I’m always amazed with how nervous students are when they come to launch their rockets for the first time. One junior even mentioned that she would cry if her group’s rocket would not pass the test to make sure it was safe to fly. Not only did it pass the test, but when she got to press the button to launch the rocket and see it soar almost a hundred feet in the air, her emotion changed from anxious to ecstatic in an instant. Overall, this is a very memorable event that all students in physics classes get to experience.”

Click here for photos of the launch.