Creative Physics Problems: Waves, Electricity & Magnetism, And Optics

by Chris McMullen

This is book is a collection of creative physics problems. No examples or solutions are provided, as this volume of physics problems is intended to be used in conjunction with a textbook. Like textbook problems, answers to selected questions are provided. This can be useful for (i) teachers who are looking for engaging problems to assign or use as examples and (ii) diligent self-learners who are willing to work for the answer and possibly rework the problem a few times (which can be a rewarding strategy in the long run, but does not suit many of today’s students who want the information simply injected into their brains). These imaginative problems are designed engage the interest of students in this difficult subject, add a little zest to abstract concepts like electric field, and challenge students to apply the concepts to involved problems. This includes artistically drawn circuits for capacitors or resistors, electricity problems where students are shrunk by a ray gun, visual problems for Lenz's law, and review problems grouped by a theme (such as one where the students are kidnapped by aliens). Involved problems are included to build fluency in the major problem-solving strategies, like superposition of electric fields, application of Kirchhoff's rules, and the strategy for solving problems with spherical mirrors and lenses. Many problems are broken down into parts to help guide students along – that is, you can check your answer to part (a) before moving onto part (b).

86 pages, Paperback

First published November 23, 2008

About the author

Dr. Chris McMullen has over 20 years of experience teaching university physics in California, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and Louisiana. Dr. McMullen is also an author of math and science books. Whether in the classroom or as a writer, Dr. McMullen loves sharing knowledge and the art of motivating and engaging students.

Chris McMullen earned his Ph.D. in phenomenological high-energy physics (particle physics) from Oklahoma State University in 2002. Originally from California, Dr. McMullen earned his Master's degree from California State University, Northridge, where his thesis was in the field of electron spin resonance.

Dr. McMullen is well-known for:
• engaging students in challenging ideas through creativity
• breaking difficult problems down into manageable steps
• providing clear and convincing explanations to subtle issues
• his mastery of physics and strong background in mathematics
• helping students become more fluent in practical math skills

As a physics teacher, Dr. McMullen observed that many students lack fluency in fundamental math skills. In an effort to help students of all ages and levels master basic math skills, he published a series of math workbooks on arithmetic, fractions, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus called the Improve Your Math Fluency Series. Dr. McMullen has also published a variety of science books, including introductions to basic astronomy and chemistry concepts in addition to physics workbooks.

Dr. McMullen is very passionate about teaching. Many students and observers have been impressed with the transformation that occurs when he walks into the classroom, and the interactive engaged discussions that he leads during class time. Dr. McMullen is well-known for drawing monkeys and using them in his physics examples and problems, using his creativity to inspire students. A stressed-out student is likely to be told to throw some bananas at monkeys, smile, and think happy physics thoughts.

Dr. McMullen first published The Visual Guide to Extra Dimensions, Volumes 1 and 2, to share his passion for the geometry and physics of the fourth dimension. Dr. McMullen has coauthored a half-dozen articles on current and future collider searches for large extra dimensions.

In addition to writing and teaching, Dr. McMullen enjoys Scrabble, golf, and chess.