College Physics I: Models, Measurements, and Vectors – Study Notes

Course Overview

This course, College Physics I (PHYS 1301), introduces students to the fundamental principles of physics, focusing on algebra-based methods. Topics include space and time, kinematics, forces, energy, momentum, conservation laws, periodic motion, waves, and thermodynamics. The course emphasizes problem-solving, conceptual understanding, and the application of physical laws.

Models, Measurements, and Vectors

The Nature of Physics

Physics is the foundational science that seeks to understand the patterns and laws governing the natural world. It is an experimental science, relying on observation, experimentation, and the formulation of theories and laws.

• Physical Law: A well-established theory widely used to describe natural phenomena.

• Model: An idealized representation of a physical system used to simplify analysis.

• Example: Modeling a baseball in flight as a point object to ignore air resistance and focus on gravitational force.

Historical Foundations

Early physicists such as Aristotle, Galileo, and Newton contributed to our understanding of motion and forces.

• Aristotle: Proposed that falling speed is proportional to weight.

• Galileo: Demonstrated that objects fall at the same rate regardless of mass in the absence of resistance.

• Newton: Formulated the laws of motion and universal gravitation.

• Example: Galileo's experiments from the Leaning Tower of Pisa and his study of pendulum motion.

Solving Physics Problems

Effective problem-solving in physics involves a systematic approach:

• Identify: Relevant concepts, target variables, and known quantities.

• Set Up: Choose appropriate equations and draw diagrams.

• Execute: Perform calculations and show reasoning.

• Evaluate: Compare results with estimates and check for consistency.

Standards and Units

Fundamental Quantities

Physics relies on three fundamental quantities: length, time, and mass. The International System of Units (SI) is the standard system used worldwide.

• Length: Measured in meters (m)

• Time: Measured in seconds (s)

• Mass: Measured in kilograms (kg)

• Example: The meter is defined by the distance light travels in a vacuum in 1 second.

Measurement Standards

Precise standards are used to define units:

• Second: Defined by the frequency of microwave radiation absorbed by cesium-133 atoms.

• Meter: Defined by the distance light travels in a vacuum in 1/299,792,458 seconds.

Prefixes and Unit Conversions

Prefixes are used to express multiples and submultiples of units. Unit conversions are essential for dimensional consistency in calculations.

• Common Prefixes: µ (micro, $10^{-6}$), k (kilo, $10^{3}$), m (milli, $10^{-3}$), n (nano, $10^{-9}$)

• Unit Consistency: Equations must be dimensionally consistent; only quantities with the same units can be added or equated.

• Example: Converting 3 minutes to seconds:

$3\ \text{min} = (3\ \text{min})\left(\frac{60\ \text{s}}{1\ \text{min}}\right) = 180\ \text{s}$

Course Structure and Assessment

Exams and Quizzes

The course includes three major exams, pop quizzes, homework assignments, and pre/post-tests. Exams cover material discussed in class and are graded numerically. Homework is submitted via Mastering Physics, and quizzes are scheduled online.

Instructor	Course Information	Exam Name	Exam Start Date	Exam End Date	Exam Start/End Time	Exam Type	Exam Duration
Paul MacAlevy	PHYS 1301/PHYS 2325. All Sections - MECHANICS	Pretest	1/20/2026	2/2/2026	During Center hours	Online	60 mins
Paul MacAlevy	PHYS 1301/PHYS 2325. All Sections - MECHANICS	Posttest	4/15/2026	4/25/2026	During Center hours	Online	60 mins

Grading Policy

• Exams: 70% of final grade (Exam 1: 20%, Exam 2: 20%, Final Exam: 30%)

• Homework: 18% via Mastering Physics

• Quizzes: 10%

• Learning Evaluation: Pre-test and Post-test (2% each)

• Extra Credit: Up to 3% for class participation

Key Learning Objectives

• Compute vector operations (sum, scalar multiplication, vector multiplication)

• Analyze linear and rotational motion (displacement, velocity, acceleration)

• Apply force concepts, including gravity and Newton’s laws

• Classify energy forms and use conservation of energy

• Define momentum and analyze collisions

• Relate linear and rotational variables

• Explain simple harmonic motion and waves

• Describe fluid mechanics and interpret thermodynamic laws

Additional info:

These notes cover the introductory chapter and course structure, focusing on models, measurements, and vectors. Further chapters will expand on motion, forces, energy, and other core physics topics as outlined in the syllabus.