Engage!

What Is Physics

So what do we cover in class? What is physics?

I like to think of physics as a study of different kinds of energy: mechanical, thermal, wave, sound, electromagnetic, light, atomic, and nuclear. (What would you think if we renamed the class Energy and You?)

Tools of the Trade

To begin with, we will become familiar with measuring, measuring devices, and standard units of measurement.

We will also briefly review algebra and trigonometry. Remember, college algebra and high school trig (or their equivalents) are prerequisites for this course. Your algebra skills will be critical to success in College Physics.

You will need a calculator, but the fancy graphing calculator is not necessary. If you have one, that is fine, and by all means use it, but all you need is any scientific calculator with trig functions. (If you have to buy one, they are available for $10-$20.)

Motion, Energy, Momentum, Conservation, Rotation, Fluids

Our second major area will be the study of objects in motion, followed by the study of how they get into motion in the first place — and how to change that motion. We will define mechanical energy and momentum, and learn about conservation principles. Finally, our study of classical mechanics will deal with rotation and fluids.

Thermodynamics

Our next major area will be thermal energy and how heat can be used to do useful work. By this time we will have arrived at the end of the semester.

The concepts and principles we discuss will also be put into their historical context. We will learn about the major players in the physics world and their contributions. It's important to note that the physics we will learn this semester was basically figured out before the beginning of the Twentieth Century and as such is deemed "classical" as opposed to "modern."

Building Knowledge,
Concept by Concept

Physics is a discipline of logical progression and interconnected concepts. It is important to realize from the beginning that each concept we study is important to your understanding of the next concept. No chapter in your textbook is completely independent of the material that precedes it.

However, don't get discouraged if you don't get everything right off the bat. Physics concepts build upon each other, so you will see the concepts appear time and again. You will have the opportunity to review on-the-fly and reinforce material previously presented.

One warning: we will be moving at a fairly good pace. At times we may move ahead before you think that you are ready. Don't get discouraged. Keep up with the reading and the homework. Ask questions in class and visit Planet Psi and the companion website for your textbook. Take advantage of my office hours. I may also be available even if it's not an official office hour. If you can't come by in person, I may be able to answer your questions on the phone or via E-mail.

I hope this little web chat has given you some idea of what we will be doing this semester. For additional study hints see the Class Resource page and be sure to check out the Physics Lab page, too.