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Joko Saefan
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+6289131931699
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lontarphysicstoday@upgris.ac.id
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Kota semarang,
Jawa tengah
INDONESIA
Lontar Physics Today
ISSN : -     EISSN : 28280970     DOI : https://doi.org/10.26877
Core Subject :
This journal aims to be a platform for the dissemination of research findings, conceptual studies, and innovations in Physics and Physics Education that are relevant to academic needs. This journal bridges the worlds of physics research and physics education practices, enabling the results of fundamental and applied studies to be effectively integrated into classroom and laboratory learning. The journal is expected to contribute to the improvement of physics education quality and the development of a generation of physics learners who are critical, creative, and adaptable to future challenges.
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Articles 8 Documents
Search results for , issue "vol. 5 no. 2: june 2026" : 8 Documents clear
The Effectiveness of Problem-Based Learning Supported by the PhET Virtual Laboratory Simulation in Improving Students’ Communication Skills on Temperature and Heat Mega Indira Teguh Putri; Mivtha Citraningrum; Abdul Rachman Tiro
Lontar Physics Today Vol. 5 No. 2: June 2026
Publisher : Universitas PGRI Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.26877/lpt.v5i2.300

Abstract

Communication skills are among the essential competencies required in 21st-century learning and play a crucial role in science education. However, students often experience difficulties in expressing ideas, presenting arguments, and communicating scientific concepts effectively. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) supported by PhET virtual laboratory simulations in improving students’ communication skills on the topic of temperature and heat. The study employed a quantitative approach using a one-group pretest–posttest quasi-experimental design. The participants were 36 eleventh-grade students from a public senior high school in Sorong City, Indonesia. Data were collected through communication skill tests, observation sheets, expert validation instruments, and student response questionnaires. The data were analysed using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test and N-Gain analysis. The results showed a significant improvement in students’ communication skills after the implementation of PBL supported by PhET simulations (Z = −5.244, p < 0.001). The average communication skill score increased from 50.7 on the pretest to 85.5 on the posttest. The N-Gain value of 0.71 indicated a high level of improvement. The greatest improvement was observed in students’ ability to explain observation results using physics concepts, while nonverbal communication showed the smallest increase. Student responses toward the learning approach were predominantly positive, particularly regarding the visualization of temperature and heat phenomena and support for scientific communication. These findings suggest that integrating Problem-Based Learning with PhET virtual laboratory simulations is an effective instructional strategy for enhancing students’ communication skills in physics learning.
Liquid Refractive Index Measurement via Geometric Analysis of Total Internal Reflection Light Rings Oktaviana Dwi Saputri; Suharto Linuwih; Listiyanto
Lontar Physics Today Vol. 5 No. 2: June 2026
Publisher : Universitas PGRI Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.26877/lpt.v5i2.394

Abstract

Refractive index measurement is a fundamental component of geometric optics; however, determining the refractive index of liquids is often constrained by the high cost of standard equipment and the complexity of direct angular measurement procedures. Consequently, this study proposes an alternative method for determining the liquid refractive index based on the geometric analysis of light ring patterns formed by Total Internal Reflection (TIR). From the ray path analysis, a linear relationship was derived between the square of the light ring radius and the square of the liquid height  whereby the refractive index is determined from the gradient of this relationship. The developed method was validated through two experimental schemes determining the refractive index of water and cooking oil and observing the effect of NaCl concentration on the solution’s refractive index. The experimental results demonstrate a linear relationship between and , consistent with the developed equation. The refractive index values obtained for water and cooking oil were 1.339±0.006 and 1.491±0.013, respectively, with relative uncertainties below 1% and accuracies above 98%. In the second experiment, the refractive index of the NaCl solution increased with concentration, although precision limitations in measuring the ring pattern radius caused deviations at several data points. These findings suggest that the reflection light ring phenomenon resulting from total internal reflection can be effectively utilized as an alternative method for measuring liquid refractive indices through a relatively simple experimental approach, with potential for further development in both research and optical education.
Analysis of Prism Material Refractive Index Based on Color Spectrum Using a Spectrometer Nurvadillah Angraini. A; Nurhandayani Nurhandayani; Nurul Amalia Aris; Rosita Rosita; Yusnita Sari
Lontar Physics Today Vol. 5 No. 2: June 2026
Publisher : Universitas PGRI Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.26877/lpt.v5i2.423

Abstract

Determining the refractive index of prisms using a spectrometer generally focuses only on basic measurement procedures without analyzing the relationship between minimum deviation, light dispersion, and sources of measurement error. In addition, studies that integrate the determination of refractive index, dispersion curves, and evaluation of scale reading accuracy in a single experiment are still limited. This study aims to determine the refractive index of a solid prism materials using the minimum deviation method and to analyze the phenomenon of light dispersion based on the resulting color spectrum. The method used is a laboratory experiment with a prism spectrometer and a mercury (Hg) polychromatic light source, with a prism apex angle of 60°. Measurements were taken on the yellow (λ = 5770 Å), green (λ = 5461 Å), and purple (λ = 4047 Å) color spectra through readings of the main scale and vernier scale, then analyzed quantitatively using the minimum deviation equation and dispersion curve. The novelty of this study lies in the integration of minimum deviation analysis, light dispersion, and measurement error evaluation in a single series of spectrometer experiments. The results of the study show that the mean prism refractive indices are n = 1.6384 (yellow), n = 1.6218 (green), and n = 1.6872 (purple), respectively, consistent with the refractive index range of dense flint glass and confirming the wavelength dependence of the refractive index. This study proves that prism spectrometers are effective in determining refractive indices and characterizing the optical properties of materials experimentally and can serve as an effective contextual experimental model for physics education.
Implementing Experiential Learning with Simple Media to Improve Cognitive Learning Outcomes on Heat Concepts Yulianti Safhira; Muhammad Syafii; Naila Fauza
Lontar Physics Today Vol. 5 No. 2: June 2026
Publisher : Universitas PGRI Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.26877/lpt.v5i2.503

Abstract

This study examines the implementation of an experiential learning model supported by simple instructional media in teaching heat, with a focus on students’ cognitive learning outcomes. A quasi-experimental design with a posttest-only control group was employed, involving two Grade XI science classes at SMAN 10 Pekanbaru (n = 78). Data were collected using a 17-item multiple-choice test developed based on Bloom’s Taxonomy (C1–C6) and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including the mean, median, mode, and standard deviation. The results show that the experimental class achieved a higher mean posttest score (74.66; SD = 14.78) compared to the control class (68.63; SD = 18.43). In addition, a greater proportion of students in the experimental class were classified into the high and very high categories. These findings indicate a more favorable distribution of cognitive learning outcomes in the experimental group, particularly in higher-order cognitive levels. This study highlights the potential of integrating experiential learning with simple instructional media as a practical approach to support meaningful learning and the development of higher-order thinking skills in physics education, especially in resource-limited settings. Future research is recommended to employ inferential analysis and more rigorous research designs to further examine the effectiveness of this approach.
Implementation of a Multi-Representation Approach to Enhance Students’ Learning Outcomes in Rigid Body Equilibrium Garry Andreas Ludong; Aswin Hermanus Mandolang; Jeferson Polii; Kenny Setiawan Lahope
Lontar Physics Today Vol. 5 No. 2: June 2026
Publisher : Universitas PGRI Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.26877/lpt.v5i2.571

Abstract

The equilibrium of rigid bodies is often regarded as a difficult topic in physics education as it requires a complex integration of verbal understanding, visualisation of force diagrams, and mathematical formulation. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the multi-representation approach (MRA) in improving students’ cognitive learning outcomes on this subject matter. This study employed a quasi-experimental method with a one-group pretest-post-test design involving 20 students in Class 11 at SMA Negeri 2 Tomohon. The research instrument consisted of a validated essay test using Aiken’s V coefficient and the Content Validity Ratio. Data were analysed using a paired t-test and the normalised gain score. The results showed a significant increase in the mean learning outcome score, from 55.50 in the pre-test to 75.85 in the post-test. Statistical analysis yielded a t_count=13.81 that exceeds t_tabel=2.09, indicating a rejection of the null hypothesis. An N-Gain score of 0.62 places the effectiveness of the intervention in the ‘Moderate’ category. These findings demonstrate that the MRA effectively minimises students’ cognitive load by providing a transitional bridge from visual representations (Free Body Diagram) to accurate mathematical solutions. This study recommends the use of MRA as an essential instructional strategy to enhance conceptual understanding of abstract mechanics material.
Measurement of Temperature, CO₂ Concentration, and Humidity in Food Spoilage Gas Using an Electroplated SnO₂ Resistive Sensor Ridlo Hajatulloh; Moh. Toifur; Aliaman Aliaman; Indra Budi Setiawan; Okimustava Okimustava; Eko Susanto
Lontar Physics Today Vol. 5 No. 2: June 2026
Publisher : Universitas PGRI Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.26877/lpt.v5i2.594

Abstract

Food spoilage is accompanied by changes in environmental parameters, including temperature, carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentration, and relative humidity, which can influence the electrical response of metal oxide semiconductor sensors. This study aimed to fabricate an SnO₂ resistive sensor by electroplating and evaluate its electrical response to environmental variations during food spoilage. The SnO₂ sensing layer was deposited on a Cu substrate by electroplating at 6.0 V and an electrolyte temperature of 40 °C, followed by thermal oxidation. The fabricated sensor was tested in a sealed chamber containing a food sample undergoing natural spoilage, while temperature, CO₂ concentration, relative humidity, and sensor resistance were simultaneously monitored. The results showed that the sensor resistance generally decreased with increasing temperature, CO₂ concentration, and relative humidity. Regression analysis revealed a strong relationship between sensor resistance and temperature (R² = 0.8729), whereas relative humidity showed a moderate relationship (R² = 0.5669). The resistance response to CO₂ concentration also exhibited a distinct nonlinear trend associated with the progression of food decomposition. These findings indicate that temperature and CO₂ concentration exert a stronger influence on the electrical response of the electroplated SnO₂ sensor than relative humidity. The fabricated sensor therefore demonstrates potential as a low-cost resistive sensing platform for monitoring environmental changes associated with food spoilage.  
Development of Interactive Physics E-comics Based on Problem-Based Learning to Improve Students' Science Literacy on Fluid Ummu A’fifah; Sri Latifah; Sodikin
Lontar Physics Today Vol. 5 No. 2: June 2026
Publisher : Universitas PGRI Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.26877/lpt.v5i2.702

Abstract

Education is a systematic process that aims to transfer knowledge, skills, and values to shape students' character. To support quality education through innovation, this Research and Development (R&D) study aims to develop a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) interactive physics e-comic on fluid materials. Specifically, the study determines the product's feasibility, the responses of educators and students, and its effectiveness in improving students' science literacy. The research utilized the ADDIE model, comprising analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation stages. The validation results indicated that the e-comic is highly feasible, achieving average scores of 89.40% from material experts, 78% from media experts, and 91.67% from learning instrument experts. Furthermore, the product garnered a "very interesting" response rate of 95% from educators and 91.49% from students. The effectiveness test revealed an N-Gain score of 0.76 (high category), demonstrating a significant improvement in students' science literacy. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the PBL-based interactive physics e-comic is highly feasible, engaging, and effective to be used as a learning medium.
Exploring The Potential of the Physical Characteristics of Coastal Well Water in Majene Regency as a Context for High School Physics Learning: A Preliminary Study and Needs Analysis Sulfianty Sulfianty; Juniar Rasyid; Nurul Amalia Aris; Mawardi Jalil Masri; Nurvadillah Angraini; Nurhandayani Nurhandayani
Lontar Physics Today Vol. 5 No. 2: June 2026
Publisher : Universitas PGRI Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.26877/lpt.v5i2.909

Abstract

Physics is often perceived by students as abstract and detached from everyday experience, a recurring concern in physics education literature. Place-based learning and ethnoscience approaches, using local phenomena to connect science with students' lived experience, have been recommended to address this issue. This preliminary needs-analysis study identifies the potential of coastal well water phenomena in Majene Regency as an authentic context for fluid mechanics, while mapping misconceptions, interest, and teacher needs for contextual materials. A mixed-methods approach followed the first two stages of the Model of Educational Reconstruction (MER): content analysis and investigation of student and teacher perspectives. Data were collected from 42 Grade 11 students at SMAN 3 Majene using a Three-Tier Diagnostic Test and an interest questionnaire, and from 5 physics teachers via a needs-analysis questionnaire, with ethical approval and informed consent. Instruments were expert-validated (Aiken's V = 0.73; KR-20 = 0.78; Cronbach's alpha = 0.82). Results show coastal well water phenomena relate directly to four core concepts density, hydrostatic pressure, Archimedes' principle, and discharge-continuity and students hold significant misconceptions, particularly on Archimedes' principle (69.05%). General interest in physics was low, but interest in locally contextualized learning was high, and all teachers reported urgent need for contextual materials. This study fills a gap in place-based physics education literature in coastal West Sulawesi and yields a preliminary concept map as a foundation for contextual teaching materials, applicable locally and transferable elsewhere.

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