Catalog Data:  A beginning course in physics covering the topics of kinematics, dynamics, gravitation, work, energy, momentum, rotational kinematics and dynamics. Prerequisite: Math 131. Corequisite: Physics 150L. One semester; three credits.

Textbooks:  Physics for Scientists & Engineers with Modern Physics, Serway & Beichner, Brooks/Cole - Thomson Publishing, 2000 (5th ed.) [Textbook's Student Site]

Calculator Policy:  You may use a calculator on tests and assignments.

Prerequisites by topic:  You should have fundamental skills in college algebra, trigonometry, functions and problem solving. You should also have a basic understanding of the concepts of the derivative and the integral and know the rules of differentiation and integration for simple functions such as polynomials, sine, and cosine.

Goals:  
1. To learn how to use the concepts of vectors, force, energy, momentum, Newton's laws of motion, and the conservation laws of energy and momentum to see how we model the workings of Nature, particularly the motion of objects, so that you can: (a) understand how our physical world works (b) use your understanding in future courses where you will increase your knowledge base
2. To see how all physical phenomena can be organized into a few qualitative and quantitative theories.
3.To obtain a certain level of mastery in using these models to solve problems and predict outcomes of physical interactions.
4. To learn about certain applications of mechanical phenomena.
5. To learn about the relative sizes of the physical quantities that are used in the models. To learn what is a reasonable size for each of these quantities.
6. To increase your analytical reasoning skills and build your scientific vocabulary so that you can be an active member in today's technical world.
7. To increase your mathematical skill. To see how calculus can be used in our physical models.

Topics:  
Introduction & One-Dimensional Kinematics
Dimensional Analysis/Units Vectors
Velocity & Acceleration, Constant Acceleration Motion, Free Fall Motion
Two-Dimensional Kinematics & Mechanics, Projectile Motion, Uniform Circular Motion, Relative Motion
Force, Newton's Laws of Motion, Gravity, Circular Motion Mechanics, Drag Forces, Nonconstant Forces
Energy & Linear Momentum, Work & Power, Kinetic Energy & Work-Energy Theorem, Potential Energy & Law of Conservation of Energy
Linear Momentum & Impulse, Law of Conservation of Momentum, Collisions, Rocket Propulsion
Rotational Motion & Oscillations, Rotational Kinematics, Torque & Rotational Dynamics, Static Equilibrium, Rolling Motion, Angular Momentum
Simple Harmonic Motion

Final Exam:  The final exam is comprehensive and prepared by the instructor.

Performance Evaluation:  Student performance is rated by a final letter grade which is determined by a combination of written homework, computer assisted homework, tests, and the final exam.

Resources:  The course instructor is available outside of the classroom a minimum of 10 hours per week for individual help.

Computer assisted homework problems are assigned which can be downloaded and completed on any computer. The computer provides immediate feedback to the student as to whether an answer is correct or incorrect, and offers advice on how to attack a problem.

The Math Center offers free tutoring in algebra and calculus.

Instructor web pages:  Dr. Johnny Holmes   Dr. John Varriano

Attendance:  You must attend class regularly.

Coordinators:  Dr. Johnny Holmes, Professor of Physics, and Dr. John Varriano,  Professor of Physics

Computer Usage:  There are several computer assisted homework problems that pertain to the material covered in Physics I. In addition, collected homework problems may involve the use of a computer for numerical analysis.

Estimated ABET Category Content:  Physics 100% or 3 Credits