Physics: Physics for Engineers I

Mechanics including oscillations and waves. With lab. Accompanying optional problem-solving session: PHYS 1510. Prerequisite: MATH 1234 or MATH 1242.

Prereqs enforced by the system: MATH 1234 or 1242; Open to Degree and PACE students

A calculus-based course that explores kinematics Newton's Laws for linear and rotation dynamics, potential energy and conservation laws, oscillations and propagation of mechanical waves. The course is tailored for engineering freshmen needs in a flipped, active learning, studio-physics class format. It is a 4 credit course that includes mandatory laboratory experimental activities. Student may opt to enroll in a recitation section, PHYS 1510, for one additional credit. Pre-requisite: Math 1234.

Because the course is centered on small-group activities, you are expected to prepare for each day's activities in advance, and to attend and actively participate on a daily basis. Participation in the various assignments will require that students obtain a License for Modified Mastering Physics with Pearson eText -- (Registration and payment should be done directly through a link in our Brightspace course.) -- for Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach with Modern Physics 5/e ISBN-9780137338467 Learning objectives: 1. Manipulate vector physical quantities and analyze graphs. 2. Perform a quantitative analysis of linear and rotational motion. 3. Draw a free-body diagram of particles and rigid bodies and employ Newton’s laws to calculate acceleration or work done by various bodies or systems of particles. 4. Employ energy and momentum concepts and conservations laws to find physical quantities that describe kinematics and dynamics of various bodies or systems of particles. 5. Calculate moment of inertia and center of mass for rigid bodies. 6. Apply the fundamental kinematics, dynamics and energy concepts (see objectives 1-4) to study harmonic oscillations and mechanical waves. 7. Conduct and troubleshoot experiments that investigate the physical phenomena and principles explored in 1-6.

Reading assignments are evaluated in a pre-lecture quiz on average twice a week. Evaluation is done in weekly in-class individual or group assignments and activities such as tutorials and problem solving. Homework is assigned and submitted online via the MasteringPhysics website. There are three written midterms and one final written comprehensive exam.