From Earth to Heaven: Using ‘Newton’s Cannon’ Thought Experiment for Teaching Satellite Physics

摘要: Thought Experiments are powerful tools in both scientific thinking and the teaching of science. In this study, historical Experiment (TE) ‘Newton’s Cannon’ was used as a tool to teach concepts relating motion satellites students at upper secondary level. The research instruments were: (a) teaching-interview designed implemented according Teaching methodology (b) an open-ended questionnaire administered 2 weeks after teaching-interview. sample consisted forty divided into eleven groups. learning processes which occurred during were recorded analyzed. findings present study show that use TE helped mentally construct physical system has nothing do with their everyday experience (i.e. they had imagine themselves observers context whole Earth visible) draw conclusions about phenomena within system. Specifically, managed (1) conclude if object is appropriately launched, it may be placed orbit around support conclusion by giving necessary arguments, (2) realize same laws physics describe, on one hand, Moon (and other celestial bodies well) and, ‘terrestrial’ objects Earth, such tennis ball). main difficulties met caused idea there no gravity vacuum area outside Earth’s atmosphere) also experience, impossible for projectile move continuously parallel ground.