PHYS 1081 - Introductory Physics I

Credits: 5
Hours/Week: Lecture 5 Lab 2
Course Description: This course is the first of a comprehensive two-semester sequence in introductory physics. The topics of kinematics, vectors, rotational motion, gravity, energy, and oscillatory motion are introduced at the level of calculus. The course presents these topics as a foundation for further studies in science while at the same time developing problem-solving skills that will be useful for students in practically any endeavor they choose to undertake.
MnTC Goals
3 Natural Science

Prerequisite(s): Course placement into MATH 1081  or completion of MATH 1062  with a grade of C or higher.
Corequisite(s): None
Recommendation:  Concurrently enrolled in MATH 1081  

Major Content

1. Kinematics
   1. Vectors
   2. One-Dimensional Motion
   3. Two-Dimensional Motion
2. Circular Motion
   1. Uniform
   2. Non-uniform
3. Momentum
   1. Impulse and Momentum
   2. Conservation of Momentum
   3. Collisions
4. Newton’s Laws of Motion
   1. Inertia
   2. Forces and Acceleration
   3. Interactions Between Objects
5. Rotational Motion
   1. Rotational Kinematics
   2. Torque
   3. Angular Momentum
   4. Rotational Energy
6. Work and Energy
   1. Definition of Work.
   2. Kinetic Energy
   3. Potential Energy
   4. Conservation of Energy
7. Universal Gravitation
   1. Orbits
   2. Gravitational Energy
   3. Escape Velocity
8. Oscillations
   1. Simple Harmonic Oscillator
   2. Simple Pendulum
   3. Damping Forces
   4. Driving Forces

1. Analyze one- and two-dimensional motion of objects using vectors, trigonometry, and calculus.
2. Apply Newtons Laws of Motion to situations and problems involving forces.
3. Analyze circular and rotational motion in terms of forces and kinematic variables.
4. Solve problems involving collisions using the vector properties of momentum and momentum conservation.
5. Analyze oscillatory motion using calculus techniques.
6. Demonstrate a high degree of problem-solving skill.

03. 02. Formulate and test hypotheses by performing laboratory, simulation, or field experiments in at least two of the natural science disciplines. One of these experimental components should develop, in greater depth, students’ laboratory experience in the collection of data, its statistical and graphical analysis, and an appreciation of its sources of error and uncertainty.

03. 03. Communicate their experimental findings, analyses, and interpretations both orally and in writing.

03. 04. Evaluate societal issues from a natural science perspective, ask questions about the evidence presented, and make informed judgments about science-related topics and policies.

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