Contact
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Office: 52-E19 Phone: 805-756-7655 Fax: 805-756-2435 email: tbensky@calpoly.edu |
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Office Hours
Teaching
Winter 2010:
- Physics 141
- Physics 341
- ASTR 324
Research
Computer Graphics
I've always liked computer graphics and they have a strong relevance in freshman physics, since a lot of computer animation can be done
using simple laws of physics. Currently, I'm developing a freshman-physics-based computer graphics curriculum to use in PHYS 141 (freshman mechanics).
Because the graphics are so beautiful, I use a ray-tracer called Povray that Fred (F.K.F.) introduced me to back in 1996 or so. During the quarter, we learned how to model 1D/2D motion, springs, friction, collisions and rotations using the computer. Here are the final projects created by my students.
Fall 2009
The theme this quarter was to create a "Rube Goldberg Machine." In this case, to turn on a lightbulb in the most complicated possible manner.
Fall 2008
- Group 1: Project #1, Project #2, Project #3, Project #4
- Group 2: Project #5, Project #6, Project #7, Project #8
- Group 4: Project #5, Project #6, Project #7, Project #8
- Group 5: Project #9, Project #10, Project #11, Project #12
Physics Department Photos
Quantum Lab TV
As "final test" in PHYS 341/342, I filmed my students describing how a certain experiments works. Here are the results. Enjoy!
London Study 2008
I taught in Cal Poly's London Study program in Summer 2008. It was one of the most enlightening experiences I have ever had. Here are some pictures.