Cosmic Foundations of Life: Astronomy & Astrobiology Concepts
The Science of Life in the Universe
- The possibility of extraterrestrial life was first considered: many thousands of years ago during ancient times.
- The methods of modern science were originated by the: Greeks.
Key Astronomical Models & Laws
- Geocentric Model
- A spherical Earth at the center of the universe, surrounded by a celestial sphere.
- Heliocentric (Sun-centered) Model
- Describes the relative motion between Earth and other planets in their orbits.
- Stellar Parallax
- The apparent shift in position of
Black vs White: Heat Absorption & Temperature Rise
Hypothesis: Black vs. White Heat Absorption
The black can will heat up faster than the white can because black surfaces absorb more light energy, which is then converted into heat, while white surfaces reflect more light.
Experimental Observations
The black can increased in temperature more quickly than the white can. This is due to the color black absorbing light energy while the color white reflects light. This causes the black can to heat up much faster than the white. Additionally, heat is transferred
Read MorePhysics Formulas and Concepts Summary
Moments of Inertia
I = m * d². System for discrete masses: I = Σmᵢ * dᵢ². System for continuous bodies: I = ∫ (d² * dm). Steiner’s Theorem (Parallel Axis Theorem): Ia = Ib + m * d² (where Ib is the moment of inertia about an axis passing through the center of mass G, and the axis ‘a’ is parallel to ‘b’ at a distance ‘d’).
Kinematics of a Point
Position
Defined by a path-time law.
Path (Trajectory)
The set of positions of point P. Can be the intersection of two surfaces. Eliminate time ‘t’ from
Read MoreWireless Signals, Radio & Network Protocols Explained
Antennas and Electromagnetic Waves
In many communication systems, it’s not necessary for the sender and receiver to be connected by a physical cable. This wireless communication is achieved using an antenna. Antennas are devices responsible for converting electromagnetic waves into electrical impulses (reception) and vice versa (transmission).
An electrical conductor, such as an antenna, can emit energy as electromagnetic waves if a variable electric current flows through it. These electromagnetic
Read MoreCore Physics: Quantities, Motion, and Forces
Physical Quantities
Physical quantities are properties of matter that can be measured.
Scalar Quantities
These are defined only by a number and the corresponding unit. Examples include temperature (T), mass (m), length, and pressure.
Vector Quantities
To define these, besides the number and the unit, it is necessary to add the direction and sense they possess. Examples include velocity, acceleration, force, and momentum.
Elements of a Vector
- Module: The numerical value of the magnitude.
- Direction: The line
Fundamentals of Electricity Concepts
Historical Figures in Electricity
Joseph Thomson
Inventor of the mass spectrometer, discovered the electron and isotopes.
Thales
Observed electrical phenomena by rubbing amber with a cloth and noted that the bar attracted objects.
Otto von Guericke
Observed that repulsion occurred between electrified bodies after they had been attracted. He devised the first electrostatic generator, a sulfur ball, and produced sparks, which led him to speculate about the electrical nature of lightning.
Pieter van Musschenbroek
Performed
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