Physics

Course Outline

Our goal in Physics is to have students master the concepts they will work with in first semester physics in college. This way they will be prepared to either start with second semester physics or be assured they will do well in their first semester course. The textbook provides a sequential outline of topics, but we tend to delve deeper into the concepts than our text suggests.

Course Preparation

Mathematical Preparation

Unit Analysis

“Functional Trigonometry”

Laboratory Preparation

Lab Design

Analysis of Data

Write-ups

Chapter I: Simple Motion

Vector vs Scalar Quantities

Graphing Motion

Chapter 2: Velocity and Acceleration

Graphical Analysis

Kinematic Equations

Chapter 3: Vector Analysis

Vector Diagrams

1,& 2D Vectors

Addition of multiple vectors

Chapter 4: Freefalling Bodies

Acceleration due to Gravity

Projectiles in 1 and 2 Dimensions

Chapter 5: Forces

Gravity

Friction

Hooke's Law Applications

Chapter 6: Newtonian Laws

First Law

Inertia

Second Law

F=ma

Third Law

Action/Reaction

Application in Momentum

Chapter 7: Work, Power and Energy

Work vs Power

Simple Machines

Efficiency

Kinetic vs Potential Energy

Chapter 10: Properies and Behavior of Waves

(as time permits)

General Behavior of waves

Simple Harmonic Motion

Sound Waves

Light Waves