The goal of this semilab is to learn to think like an astrobiogeophysicist. Physical processes can be complicated and vary across vast length and time scales; however, it is possible to obtain approximate answers to a surprisingly large number of seemingly difficult questions. This is the mindset of order of magnitude physics - where cows are spheres and pi equals three.
We will first cover the fundamentals of order of magnitude estimation and formal dimensional analysis. We will ask questions such as: Can you solve a physics problem without knowing any physics? Suppose you are starting a new landscaping business: how many sheep do you need to mow a lawn perpetually? Then we will apply our new skills to several topics and questions. We will begin with a tour of waves and liquids, including a water tank experiment and an ultrasonic vaporizer. Then we will more theoretically explore the physics of planets. Can we estimate the size of Saturn's storms? What is the maximum height of a mountain on any planet? We will conclude our journey with life. What limits how deep a whale can dive? How do bugs breathe?
Prerequisites:
- Math requirements: trigonometry and precalculus
- Physics requirements: mechanics and the basics of electricity and magnetism