iPads in AP Physics

Students in AP Physics arrive in class understanding vector algebra.  Three-dimensional vectors are written in unit vector notation.  For example, a position vector may be written as r = 6i + 2j - 3k.  However, students often have difficulty visually three-dimensional vectors.

Using the App "Vect Calc" students were able to enter specific three-dimensional vectors and see a representation of their vector on a 3D axis.  By entering two three-dimensional vectors, students could determine the dot (or scalar ) product and the cross (vector) product.  The resultant cross product vector is represented in space on the 3D axes.

Vert Calc

Vert Calc gets results!