Conexões entre física, fenômenos naturais e mudanças climáticas para ensino das ciências ambientais

Abstract

The integration between physics and environmental sciences can be significantly improved through the study of natural phenomena and the application of practical activities. By investigating fundamental concepts of physics, such as mechanics, thermodynamics and electricity, students can understand how these principles are intrinsically linked to the environment, whether in the formation of storms, soil erosion or the hydrological cycle. The use of practical experiences, such as creating tornado models, simulating climate change and measuring energy consumption, offers a concrete way to understand the theory, connecting it directly to everyday reality and encouraging environmental awareness. This approach allows students to view physics not only as a set of abstract formulas, but as something essential to understanding natural processes and the impacts of human activities on the planet. In this scenario, the objective of this work was to develop a technical-technological product that would provide students with a deeper understanding of natural phenomena, with a special emphasis on the vortex phenomenon. The vortex phenomenon, which describes the rotational motion of a fluid, is an excellent opportunity to explore concepts of fluid dynamics, vorticity, and motion in natural systems, as well as other concepts such as temperature, heat, and thermal equilibrium, which are also present in the context of environmental sciences. To this end, the research method adopted was the case study, involving practical activities that validated a vortex simulator developed as an educational resource. Students from the 1st and 2nd grades of the Novo Ensino Médio at Escola Estadual Mirtes Rosa Mendes de Mendonça Lima, located in Itacoatiara/AM, participated in the activity, where the simulator was used to demonstrate the behavior of vortices in a controlled environment. The research included the application of an evaluation form before and after the activity to measure the students' understanding of the content covered. This evaluation aimed not only to measure the impact of the simulator on the understanding of physical phenomena, but also to identify how this practical approach contributes to the students' involvement with environmental sciences. VortexSim is an educational resource aimed at Basic Education, especially suitable for the final years of Elementary School and the New High School. This simulator aims to illustrate the relationship between the vortex phenomenon and the physical concepts that explain it. It is expected that the use of this device will contribute significantly to the teaching of physics and environmental sciences, providing students with a more concrete understanding of natural processes and awakening their interest in topics related to the environment. By integrating the study of natural phenomena with experimental practice, VortexSim not only facilitates the learning of physics, but also stimulates critical reflection on the environmental impacts of natural and human interactions in the world around us. The application of practical activities can provide students with a more engaging educational experience, encouraging the development of scientific and environmental skills, while making learning more dynamic and relevant to contemporary issues that affect our planet.