First of a two semester calculus-based general physics sequence. Models static and dynamic mechanical phenomena by classical methods for basic analysis, prediction, and problem solving. Experiments provide practice in measurement, data analysis, and illustrations of physical principles. Vector analysis and standard SI units are utilized. Topics include kinematics, Newton’s Laws, work and energy, momentum and impulse, and rotational kinematics and dynamics. Three lecture periods and three hours of laboratory per week. (Offered spring semester only.)

Hugh D. Young and Roger A. Freedman, University Physics with Modern Physics , 12^th edition, Addison Wesley, San Francisco, CA, 2008.

General Physics I Laboratory Manual, compiled and edited by Professors Bob Barrett, David Barrett, and Dr. Abaz Kryemadhi, Messiah College, 2008.

Abaz Kryemadhi, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Physics

Required for engineering, mathematics, and physics majors. Recommended for computer science majors. Meets General Education Laboratory Science requirement.

1. Students will be able to use classical methods to handle (e.g. describe, classify, analyze, model, and/or predict) physical phenomena of mechanics following inductive (experimental) and deductive (rational) scientific method.
2. Based on physical definitions (e.g. displacement, velocity, or acceleration), laws (e.g. Newton’s) and overarching principles (e.g. conservation of energy or momentum), students will be able to solve a numerical problem by calculation or derive (e.g. by calculus) a relevant mathematic relation involving the topical phenomena. Is so doing, students will report units and significant digits properly. In the context of a mechanical system, students will be able to answer "What if?" questions related to the feasibility of a design, using the above skills.
3. Increased intuition and reason-ability about natural and manmade systems enable students to make wiser judgments about mechanical aspects of our world. Observations of both the simplicity and complexity integrated into our created universe should excite continued inquiry into its truths, help develop maturing personal attitudes by adding humility and wisdom into a student’s worldview, and foster creative stewardship of its resources that benefits humankind.

The objectives for the Mathematical Sciences for this course are:

4. To demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
5. To communicate effectively in written, public, and interpersonal forms with special attention to graphs and the models they represent.
6. To work effectively in teams which require the skill of various members of the team.
7. To be prepared academically for graduate study.
8. To integrate Christian faith and the mathematical sciences, basing professional decision-making on a Christian foundation.

MATH 110 or 111. 

Lecture/Discussion:

1. Introduction: models, measurements, units, precision, estimates and vectors
2. Kinematics of linear motion
3. Newton’s laws
4. Work and energy
5. Momentum
6. Mechanics of rotation
7. Basic thermodynamics: temperature, heat and thermal properties of matter

Laboratory Experiments:

1. Measurements & Uncertainties
2. Velocity and Acceleration
3. Static Equilibrium: Force Table
4. Verification of Dynamics
5. Projectile Motion Experiment
6. Uniform Circular Motion
7. Conservation in Collisions
8. Ballistic Pendulum/Range Fall
9. Static Equilibrium of Torques
10. Rotational Dynamics
11. Electric Calorimetry

1. Mechanics lab equipped for a maximum of twelve workstations--a pair of students at each. Workstations include networked PC, LoggerPro - data acquisition, analysis, and graphing software, and Microsoft Office.
2. Electronics lab with twelve workstations - 2 students/station. Work stations include networked PC, LoggerPro, oscilloscope, power supplies, proto boards, digital meters, and Microsoft Office software is available.

Regardless of their background, students are expected to interpret and apply one variable calculus and vector techniques as appropriate in the physical context. Since the development and application of physical science (mostly mechanics) depends on a balance between inductive and deductive approaches, the demonstrations, labs, homework and class discussions lead students in this course to assess the applicability of models, critically analyze results and develop insight about how these relationships actually govern our modern physical world.