Study of gravitational waves in high school: a theoretical and experimental approach

TL;DR

This paper explores integrating gravitational waves into high school physics education through theoretical discussion and practical experiments, including building a low-cost interferometer to enhance student understanding.

Contribution

It introduces a practical approach for teaching gravitational waves in high school, combining theory, history, and hands-on experiments with accessible equipment.

Findings

Students can grasp modern physics concepts effectively.

A low-cost interferometer can demonstrate gravitational waves.

Enhanced physics teaching through experimental activities.

Abstract

In this paper we present in a theoretical, historical and practical way the inclusion of gravitational waves in the teaching of physics. Through the explanation of the theme through debates and experimental practices in the classroom, we discuss the presence of Modern and Contemporary Physics (MCP) in High School, presenting positive points and showing above all that students have the ability to assimilate modern physical concepts and relate them with their day by day and also to discuss the barriers to this inclusion in teaching of physics. In addition to the introductory theoretical presentation of gravitational waves, the following work also raises the important question of classroom experimental practice, building a low-cost Michelson-Morley interferometer, using it as a comparison to the LIGO (Laser Interferometer for Gravitational Waves Observatory) detector detector and basing even more so is the evidence of gravitational waves for students in class. With all this theoretical and experimental construction of gravitational waves, the work presents indicators and fundamental data for this inclusion in order to improve the teaching of physics in basic education.