Problem Solving

If learning the subject of Physics is one aspect, the other aspect is the evaluation of the subject’s learning. One of the most reliable ways to do the latter is by solving problems. This article tries to gain further insight on this topic.

Problem Solving:

·        A Physics problem is a phenomenon in which some of the links are missing.

·        Solving a physics problem is finding those missed links and reestablishing them.

·        Problem solving is a skill and requires surpassing five levels of difficulty to acquire it.

·        These five levels are imitation, manipulation, precision, articulation and naturalization.

·        In the first stage, the learner imitates or follows the orderly steps of solving problems.

·        In the next stage, the learner plays around  or manipulates with these steps and tries to enhance the sense of familiarity with them.

·        In the third stage, the learner aims at acquiring precision while following the orderly steps and might seek help as the need arises.

·        In the fourth stage of articulation, the learner demonstrates the steps of problem solving without guidance but does so with utmost concentration of the mind.

·        With regular practice, the learner reaches the last stage where he solves the problems without consciously following the steps as it comes naturally to him.

Orderly Steps for Solving Physics Problems:

·        It is essential to understand the problem first and that is why the statement of the problem must be read twice at least.

·        The crux of the problem is to be understood by reducing it to its essentials.

·        A geometric model of the situation mentioned in the statement of the problem should be drawn.

·        The known and unknown quantities of the problem should be categorized.

·        A mathematical equation encompassing the notations of the known and unknown quantities should be sought out.

·        An appropriate analysis model should be conceived to break down the ideas of the problem.

·        Solve the mathematical equations and arrive at numerical solutions as per appropriate units.

·        Critique the answer arrived at and check for its accuracy.

·        Review the problem and the solution for sure once.

Conclusion: In short, problem solving primarily involves finding the Physics of the problem, solving the mathematics and analyzing the entire problem and its solution once at last.