PHYS 101 - Fundamentals of Physics 1

Number of Credits: 4
Fundamentals of Physics 1 is a first-semester course in the basic principles of physics for students who do not intend to major in either engineering or the physical sciences. It is an introduction to the phenomena, concepts, and theories of classical and modern physics, including: Newtonian mechanics, kinematics, dynamics, momentum, energy, and heat energy. Advanced Placement Exam (Physics 1) accepted. Students will not receive credit for both PHYS-101 and PHYS 111. (Fall & Spring Only) Three hours lecture each week. Three hours laboratory each week. Four Credits. Four billable hours.

GENERAL EDUCATION Category: Biological and Physical Sciences

Pre-requisite(s): eligibility for ENGL 101, plus MAT 099 with a minimum grade of C or better. Students will not receive credit for both PHYS-101 and PHYS 111.
Course Objectives: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Demonstrate experimental and collaborative skills by conducting investigations that require the formulation of hypotheses, collection and interpretation of data, and presentation of results in oral, written, visual, or other formats. (PG1, PG2; GE2, GE3)
Solve one- and two-dimensional motion problems (including projectile motion) using kinematic relationships involving an object’s position, velocity, and acceleration. (PG2; GE2)
Explain Newton’s Laws and apply them to the analysis of objects and systems in motion or in equilibrium while under the influence of forces, including gravitational forces and friction. (PG2; GE2)
Solve motion and collision problems using the concepts of work, energy, and momentum and the conservation laws for energy and momentum. (PG2; GE2)
Solve rotational motion problems for both earth bound and planetary objects using the concepts of circular motion. (PG2; GE2)
Explain Pascal’s, Archimedes’s, and Bernoulli’s principles and apply them in the solution of problems in fluid mechanics. (PG2; GE2)
Explain the behavior of objects in simple harmonic motion including pendulums and springs. (PG2; GE2)
Describe the types of waves and the way they propagate including wave reflection, interference, resonance, and standing-wave phenomena. (PG2; GE2)
Explain the sources of sound, doppler effect, and resonance and be able to solve problems associated with sound waves and their propagation. (PG2; GE2)
Explain the relationships among the concepts of temperature, heat, thermal energy, and Kinetic Theory and use these concepts to solve problems related to calorimetry. (PG2; GE2)
Research and present information on selected topics using various modes (oral, written, or visual). (PG1, PG2, PG3, PG4; GE2, GE3, GE4, GE6)