Julie Franzak

ELED 305-42

6/12/2007

Science Area: Physics

Science Misconception #1

Science Misconception:

Heavier objects fall faster than light objects.

Fact:

Although objects may differ in mass, they will fall towards the ground simultaneously at an equal pace.

Explanation:

Students believe that because feathers fall slower than rocks that lighter objects will fall slower than heavier objects.

Suggested Activity:

Have two balls (bowling balls) of unequal mass but with equal size like the sketch above, and hang them by strings next to each other. At the same time, cut the strings and compare their velocities.

Source:

“Probing Misconceptions”. http://www.physics.montana.edu/physed/misconceptions/forces/description.html#bigmfallsfast. Obtained on June 8, 2007.