12-15 July 2011
Saint George Hotel
Africa/Johannesburg timezone

Lightning – Scientific knowledge versus mythological beliefs

14 Jul 2011, 08:00
15m
Acro7

Acro7

Oral Presentation Track E - Physics Education Education

Speaker

Mr Sam Ramaila (University of Johannesburg)

Description

Lightning has in recent times wreaked havoc during the rainy season in several parts of South Africa and this prompted the physics community under the auspices of the South African Institute of Physics (SAIP) to devise meaningful strategies for promoting public awareness. In response to this call, first year physics students at the University of Johannesburg responded to a carefully designed questionnaire that seeks to probe students’ level of understanding of lightning. Analysis of responses reveals lack of scientific understanding of lightning as a natural phenomenon. Amongst others, this can to some degree be attributed to superstitious or cultural beliefs.

Level (Hons, MSc, <br> &nbsp; PhD, other)? other
Would you like to <br> submit a short paper <br> for the Conference <br> Proceedings (Yes / No)? Yes
Consider for a student <br> &nbsp; award (Yes / No)? No

Primary author

Mr Sam Ramaila (University of Johannesburg)

Co-authors

Dr Leelakrishna Reddy (University of Johannesburg) Dr Padmanabhan Nair (University of Johannesburg)

Presentation Materials