Storyboard

Physics is a science that allows us to describe situations and developments of systems in the real world. It is based on variables that can be measured and equations that relate them, enabling their calculation and therefore prediction.

Each variable is akin to a LEGO piece that is assembled to form equations, corresponding to a functional element. These different equations allow us to construct a model, similar to a LEGO toy that can be used in various ways.

The different ways of utilization correspond to the possible calculations that can be performed with different sets of data and necessary intermediate calculations.

The use of this model refers to what we term in physics problem-solving.

>Model

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Concept

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We can establish an analogy between a real-life situation and a LEGO toy.

The analogy between reality in the form of a journey and a LEGO toy

In the physical scenario, variables are described alongside equations that associate them.

The LEGO toy, on the other hand, employs bricks and pieces that assemble to form the model.

Each brick, therefore, corresponds to a variable, linking different parts similar to how equations do.

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If the modeling of a traveling vehicle is considered, the initial position $s_0$ and the final reached position $s$ must be entered:

The analogy between variables and LEGO bricks

Within the analogy, a LEGO brick is associated with each variable. As they are different variables, they are differentiated in this case by their color.

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Within the model it makes sense to calculate the path traveled $\Delta s$.

To do this, a new LEGO brick must be introduced into the analogy.

The analogy between equations and LEGO sets

For its calculation, the corresponding equation must be defined, which in this case corresponds to

$\Delta s = s - s_0$

In our analogy, LEGO bricks are connected to form the first unit of our model.

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To describe the motion in our model it is necessary to introduce time.

In analogy to the position, an initial time $t_0$, the final time $t$ and the elapsed time $\Delta t$ must be entered.

Each of the variables corresponds to a LEGO brick that is represented in the image:

The introduction of time and the analogy with LEGO

Additionally, the elapsed time must be entered, which is an equation of the form

$\Delta t = t - t_0$

This in turn is represented in the analogy a new unit of the LEGO model.

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To predict how the vehicle will move, you must enter the speed.

This is defined as the ratio of the distance covered and the time elapsed.

Within the analogy, the bricks of the path traveled are taken with that of the time elapsed and they are mounted on a new brick that represents the speed:

The analogy for the introduction of speed

Thus, the third equation is introduced

$v = \displaystylefrac{\Delta s}{\Delta t}$

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If you finish assembling the LEGO model, you get additional relationships that correspond to other descriptions of groups of bricks.

In this way, the model is represented by the five variables already defined and by a total of four equations:

Set of all equations

The central part shows the additional equation that arises from assembling the complete model.

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Finally, we have the complete model, that is, the variables and the equations that associate them.

Within the analogy there is practically a type of instruction of a LEGO model in which the necessary bricks and the elements that are being built are listed.

Instructions of the model in the LEGO style

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