Exams:

Three exams will be held over the semester, on Sep. 15, Oct. 13, and Nov 10. The exams will be open-book and open-notes. An equation sheet will be provided with the exam.

Final Exam:

The final exam will be held on the last class day, Dec. 8. The format will be the same as the mid-term exams, but the exam will be comprehensive.

Homework:

Homework will be assigned via WebAssign (available through Blackboard) each week of class, excepting weeks when there is an exam. The lowest two homework scores will be dropped from your grade.

In-Class Activities:

There will be a graded qualitative or quantitative activity during each class.

Lab worksheets:

For each lab, a worksheet will be turned in that includes the data that you gathered, an analysis of the data, and responses to questions in the lab instructions or on the worksheet.

Experiment reports:

We will work to develop reports of experiments performed in lab in the format of a scientific article. We will begin with writing each section individually; you will receive feedback on each portion and have a chance to revise. Once we have finished each section, there will be two full reports due.

Peer review & feedback:

You will give and receive feedback on your experiment reports and sections from other students and the professor.

OpenStax University Physics, Vol 1, Chapters 1 - 15

OpenStax University Physics, Vol 2, Chapters 1 - 4

Fundamental principles of physics, using calculus, for science, computer science, engineering, and mathe-

matics majors; the principles and applications of classical mechanics, including harmonic motion, physical

systems, and thermodynamics, and emphasis on problem solving.

Class Topics

Introduction 

Review

Uncertainty

1-D Motion

Vectors

2-D Motion

Multi-D Motion

Force

Gravity

Friction

Circular Motion

Conservation of Energy

Momentum

Collisions

Rotational Motion

Angular Momentum

Equilibrium

Gravity

Orbital Mechanics

Oscillation

Springs

Pendula

Pressure

Temperature

First Law of Thermodynamics

Second Law of Thermodynamics

Upon successfu completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Prepare laboratory reports that clearly communicate experimental information in a logical and scientific

manner.

• Conduct basic laboratory experiments involving classical mechanics.

• Relate physical observations and measurements involving classical mechanics to theoretical principles.

• Evaluate the accuracy of physical measurements and the potential sources of error in the measurements.

• Design fundamental experiments involving principles of classical mechanics.

• Identify appropriate sources of information for conducting laboratory experiments involving classical

mechanics.

• Determine the components of linear motion (displacement, velocity, and acceleration), and especially

motion under conditions of constant acceleration.

• Solve problems involving forces and work.

• Apply Newton's laws to physical problems.

• Identify the dierent types of energy.

• Solve problems using principles of conservation of energy.

• Define the principles of impulse, momentum, and collisions.

• Use principles of impulse and momentum to solve problems.

• Determine the location of the center of mass and center of rotation for rigid bodies in motion.

• Discuss rotational kinematics and dynamics and the relationship between linear and rotational motion.

• Solve problems involving rotational and linear motion.

• Define equilibrium, including the dierent types of equilibrium.

• Discuss simple harmonic motion and its application to real-world problems.

• Solve problems involving the First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics.

Upon completion of this course, students will demonstrate competence in:

• Communication Skills
  • Develop, interpret, and express ideas and information through written, oral and visual communication that is adapted to purpose, structure, audience, and medium.
• Critical Thinking Skills
  • Gather, analyze, synthesize, evaluate and apply information for the purposes of innovation, inquiry, and creative thinking.
• Empirical and Quantitative Skills
  • Apply mathematical, logical and scientific principles and methods through the manipulation and analysis of numerical data or observable facts resulting in informed conclusions.
• Teamwork
  • Consider different points of view to work collaboratively and eectively in pursuit of a shared purpose or goal.