Thermo & Stat Mech > Kinetic and Diffusive Processes > Brownian Motion, Diffusion, Kinetic Theory, Mean Collision Time, Mean Free Path, Viscosity
Vetted
Highlights:
a module introducing random walks following 1D kinematics as the mechanism of gradient-driven flow
Abstract:
This module introduces the random walk immediately after 1D kinematics, so as to emphasize the importance of random motion in the life sciences and lay a foundation for students to think statistically as well as deterministically. It connects the random walk of individual molecules as the mechanism for gradient-driven flow. The module culminates in a two-week (6-hour) laboratory in which students actually observe random motion on the microscopic scale through video microscopy and digital image analysis.
Resource Types:
In-class activity, Clicker question, Lecture materials, Lab, Homework, Instructor supplement, Restricted access
Authors:
TOPICS
Physics Topics:
Life Sciences Topics:
Cross-cutting Biological Concepts > Causal Mechanisms > Physical Mechanisms
Cross-cutting Biological Concepts > Matter/energy Transfer & Transforms > Cross-membrane Transport, Material Flow
Chemistry Topics:
Gases > Ideal Gas Law
Math Topics:
Probability; Statistics
INSTRUCTOR GUIDE
IMPLEMENTATION
Equipment required:
Specific equipment needed:
Basic implementation tips & tricks:
How does this resource fit into the flow of your course?
PEDAGOGY
Pedagogical approach:
Skills / Competencies:
What insights or realizations do you hope students gain from this resource?
Why is this resource useful to life sciences students?
DISCUSSION
LOGIN or REGISTER to see implementation reports and comments and join the discussion.
SUBMISSION DETAILS
Copyright: 2019 Catherine Crouch, Ben Geller
CC: BY-NC-SA - Attribution, No Commercial uses and Share Alike. Derivative works must have the same licenseLast Edit Date:
Search the Portal
Living Physics Portal
Resources and community for teaching physics for life sciences
©2026 American Association of Physics Teachers
Funded by the National Science Foundation
