Hands on Physics is a co-production of Blue Ridge PBS ECHO and Virtual Virginia. The episodes were all recorded in the demonstration physics lab at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg.

Demo: Using a scale to demonstrate that a=0 with two balanced forces.
VA SOL PH. 3a

Hands on Physics is a co-production of Blue Ridge PBS ECHO and Virtual Virginia. The episodes were all recorded in the demonstration physics lab at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg.

This demo uses a scale and an elevator ride up and down - demonstrating Newton's Laws with unbalanced forces.
VA SOL PH. 3a, 3b

This activity is designed to have students investigate the basics of forces and how they affect motion. They will also have the opportunity to participate in a PHET Simulation by the University of Colorado on Force and Motion and use the simulation to create a simple Experimental Design and collect data.

Students learn about how biomedical engineers create assistive devices for persons with fine motor skill disabilities. They learn about types of forces, balanced and unbalanced forces, and the relationship between form and function, as well as the structure of the hand. They do this by designing, building and testing their own hand "gripper" prototypes that are able to grasp and lift a 200 ml cup of sand.