Physics I – Elementary Mechanics & Harmonic Motion
A rigorous study of Newtonian mechanics, kinematics, rigid body dynamics, work-energy principles, and transverse/longitudinal wave theory.
The course provides a rigorous introduction to elementary mechanics. Vector algebra is introduced and used where appropriate. Newton’s Laws of Motion are introduced and applied to the kinematics and dynamics of particles and rigid bodies both for linear and rotational motion. The subjects of forces on bodies, momentum, work and energy are described and applied to problems. The course concludes with an introduction to wave theory starting with elastic behavior, simple harmonic motion, and mechanical waves, both transverse and longitudinal, as well as traveling and standing waves. Three hours of class per week in the first semester. Supporting laboratory exercises are conducted in the Science Lab course.