Physics Fundamentals

Semester 1 of physics is the study of mechanics, which involves motion and its causes. After reviewing the mathematical skills needed for this study, you will be introduced to vectors, learning how to express quantities including direction and how to deal with vectors in calculations. Next, you will study linear motion and will learn to solve problems involving both uniform and accelerated motion, including the motion of falling objects. In the unit on Newton's Laws of Motion, you will study the causes of motion and will be introduced to motion in two dimensions. Then you will learn about different kinds of forces, from friction to gravitational and centripetal forces. Next, you will be introduced to momentum and energy and will learn how both are conserved. Finally, you will study rotational motion, solving problems involving torque.

This semester is a continuation of the study of energy, introduced to you in the first semester as mechanical energy. In this semester, you will study other forms of energy, including electric energy, magnetism, sound, and light. You will learn how mechanical and electromagnetic waves transport energy. Topics of special interest will include electric circuits, electromagnets, acoustics, color, mirrors, and lenses.