Problem Solving Guide

Algorithm

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Misconceptions & Mistakes

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Multiple Representations

Multiple Representations is the concept that a physical phenomena can be expressed in different ways. 

Physical

Physical Representations describes the physical phenomena of the situation in a visual way.

 

Mathematical

Mathematical Representation uses equation(s) to describe and analyze the situation.

A representation with the words electric field for a point charge on the top. There is an equation that shows that the electric field from charge q, at point p, is equal to the Coulomb’s constant multiplied by the charge divided by the square of the change in position vector pointing from q to p, multiplied by the delta r hat direction. This is also written in words below.

 

A representation with the words net electric field on the top. There is an equation that shows that the net electric field is equal to the summation of each electric field vector. This is also written in words below.

 

A representation with the words the electric field due to an infinite sheet on the top. There is an equation that shows that the magnitude of the net electric field is equal to the total charge divided by two times the electric constant multiplied by the area of the sheet. This is also written in words below.

Graphical

Graphical Representation describes the situation through use of plots and graphs.

 

Descriptive

Descriptive Representation describes the physical phenomena with words and annotations.

 

Experimental

Experimental Representation examines a physical phenomena through observations and data measurement.

 

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