GravityKills Classroom
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- ℹ️ EMS Infographic
In physics, arriving at the correct answer is important, but clearly showing your thought process is even more important. Recording each step of your solution makes it much easier to identify and correct mistakes if your final answer is incorrect. While the format of your work will vary depending on the problem, it is extremely rare that you will be asked to provide only the final answer without showing how you arrived at it.
The EMS Method is a structured problem-solving approach that organizes your work into a clear, logical solution. It allows the grader to easily follow your reasoning, evaluate your understanding of the underlying physics concepts, and award partial credit when appropriate. By emphasizing the solution process, not just the final answer, the EMS Method helps develop strong problem-solving habits that are essential for success in physics.
The letters in EMS stand for:
E stands for Equation - Properly incorporate the necessary equations found on the equation sheet into your solution
M stands for Manipulation - Algebraically manipulate the equations solving for the unknown variable. This derived equation is referred to as the Working Equation Show all significant algebraic steps.
S stands for Solution - Show substituted values into the working equation. Write solution with units.
Example Problem – Calculate how long will it take a car to travel 51 meters at a constant speed of 17 m/s.
It's not necessary, but it may be helpful to identify the given information and unknown (what you're solving for).
Givens:
Δx = 51 m
v𝘰 = 17 m/s
Unknown:
t (time)
Graphic Representation
An illustration that depicts all the given information and unknown can be very helpful when solving the problem.
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If forces are involved, an FBD is a necessity when solving the problem.
Clearly indicate the positive direction(s).
Write the equation(s) in standard form as given on the equation sheet or as presented in class.
Algebraically rearrange your equation(s) to isolate the unknown variable.
Your working equation may include only variables identified in the problem.
Units are not necessary on the substitution step. Including units can help in checking if your working equation is correct – unit dimensional analysis.
Record the final answer using a reasonable number of decimal places and the appropriate unit.
It’s not necessary to identify the E, M and S parts of your solution. Instead, a neat and orderly solution is preferred. Below are three acceptable solutions.