Class Physics Project - XNA Game

Watch in at least 480p to see particles! Please read below...

For a project in my physics class, we were given the arbitrary task of demonstrating 5 basic physical concepts. This could be in the form of a video, live demonstration, or something else. I chose to put the following physical concepts and equations into an mock-up XNA game:

-Newtonian Gravitation (planetary gravity)
-Rocket Propulsion (conservation of momentum)
-Projectile Motion (both constant and variable acceleration)
-Frictional Force (static and kinetic)
-Electric Force (within a constant electric field)

Also not shown in this video is spring physics. The actual physics of the spring work within the game, but I chose not to show it because its implementation involved 2D raycasting, which I wasn't able to complete within the time constraints.

Yes, there exist some great 2D physics engines for XNA. No I did not use or consult them in making this project. Generally, physics built into actual games sacrifice flexibility and realism for performance and ease of use. The physics in this demo are 100% accurate as they use the actual physical equations.

Any comments, criticisms, or questions are more than welcome.

P.S. The red arrow in the center of the player points in the direction of the net force acting on the player.

P.P.S. Sorry about the poor recordings and upload quality.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• project
• game
• games
• software
• first
• physics
• class
• gameplay
• xna
• 2d
• equations
• computer
• gravity
• planets
• newton
• space
• math
• momentum
• rocket
• field
• force
• electric
• polarity
• net