What does force and motion involve?
Per the UK national curriculum, the KS4 study of motion and forces involves:
- Speed of sound, estimating speeds and accelerations in everyday contexts
- Interpreting quantitatively graphs of distance, time and speed
- Acceleration caused by forces (Newton’s First Law)
- Weight and gravitational field strength
- Decelerations and braking distances involved on roads, and road safety
Vehicle Crash Test Engineer
A vehicle crash test engineer plans and coordinates safety tests for the automobile industry. Alongside members of the manufacturing team, these engineers design experiments to test the capability of cars in a crash. Given the cost and effort of crash tests, you’ll run several computer simulations before a test is completed on an actual vehicle.
Crash tests are conducted using sensors and crash test dummies, and sensors to capture the data required. Once the test has been conducted, you’ll present the results to the design team, so they can make any changes necessary. It's an incredibly important role, as you’ll be working to reduce the impact and damage from car crashes. To enter the field, you’ll need a degree or apprenticeship in engineering, experience designing experiments, and a general understanding of automobile safety regulations.
Road Safety Data Analyst
Tying in to the road safety component of motion and forces, road safety data analysts work to improve the safety of our roads. They use computer software to analyse and report car crash data, producing reports and research notes to make the knowledge accessible. The data collected is used to shape public awareness campaigns surrounding safe driving, and is often used by government officials to shape legislation. Skills needed to enter this role include: team-working, problem solving and working with quantitative and qualitative data.
Biomedical Engineer
If you’ve always been fascinated by both engineering and biology, a career as a biomedical engineer is the perfect choice for you. These individuals study advances in technology and medicine, to develop new devices for improving our health. They are responsible for devices like pacemakers, artificial hips and knee braces. In order to be a successful biomedical engineer, understanding motion is vital. For example, a biomedical engineer developing an artificial hip needs to create one that can withstand strenuous movements, but does not move more than a regular hip.