Students' conceptual knowledge of energy and momentum

Abstract

We investigate student understanding of energy and momentum concepts at the level of introductory physics by designing and administering a 25-item multiple choice test and conducting individual interviews. We find that most students have difficulty in qualitatively interpreting basic principles related to energy and momentum and in applying them in physical situations. The test development process and a summary of results are presented.

4 pages, PACS: 01.40Fk,01.40.gb,01.40G-,1.30.Rr; Keywords: physics education research, pedagogy, teaching, learning, assessment, energy, momentum, student difficulties. arXiv admin note: substantial text overlap with arXiv:1602.06497

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