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PHY 2048 Physics with Calculus I – Syllabus and Course Overview

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Course Overview

Introduction

PHY 2048: Physics with Calculus I is a calculus-based introductory physics course designed for science and engineering majors. The course covers foundational topics in physics, emphasizing analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills. Students will learn to apply physical principles to real-world scenarios and develop proficiency in interpreting and analyzing physical phenomena.

Course Structure and Meeting Information

  • Section: U02

  • Term: Fall 2025

  • Delivery: In-person

  • Class Times: MW, 3:30PM–5:10PM

  • Location: CP-151

  • Instructor: Professor Bernard S. Gerstman

  • Email: gerstman@fiu.edu

  • Office Location: CP-204

Course Prerequisites

  • Prerequisite or Corequisite: MAC2311 (Calculus I) or equivalent

Course Description and Purpose

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of physics using calculus. The main objectives are:

  • Develop quantitative skills for success in introductory physics

  • Relate position, velocity, acceleration, and force, and interpret them graphically

  • Use physical parameters to analyze and predict the behavior of systems

Course Goals

  • Solve kinematic equations for unknown quantities in motion

  • Solve kinematic problems using conservation of energy and momentum

  • Compare and relate linear and rotational dynamics

  • Analyze fluid behavior

  • Analyze periodic motion

Student Learning Outcomes/Objectives

  • Apply critical thinking to solve introductory physics problems

  • Describe different types of motion: translational, rotational, and simple harmonic

  • Apply Newton's laws and conservation laws to solve analytical problems

  • Identify and analyze relevant information in graphs, tables, and diagrams

  • Solve real-world problems using knowledge developed in the course

Textbook and Course Materials

  • Required Textbook: University Physics (Pearson, 2019)

  • ISBN-13: 9780135159652

  • ISBN-10: 0135159655

  • Notes: Mastering Physics will not be used

  • Panther Book Pack: Rental program for required print and digital materials

Grading

  • Grades are based on three in-class exams and a final exam, each worth 100 points

  • No make-up exams; missed exams receive a grade of zero

  • Combined percentage determines final grade

Letter

Range %

Letter

Range %

Letter

Range %

A

92 or above

B+

82 to < 87

C+

72 to < 77

A-

87 to < 92

B

77 to < 82

C

67 to < 72

B-

72 to < 77

C-

59 to < 67

F

< 49

Assignments

  • Read assigned chapters before and after lectures

  • Practice problems from the textbook (not graded)

  • Exams scheduled on Canvas

Schedule of Topics

Date

Chapters, Sections

Notes

Aug 25

1-review, Ch. 2.1-2.4

Mathematics review – self-study

Aug 27

2.5-2.6

Sep 3

3.1-3.3

Sep 8

3.4-4.6

Sep 10

4.1-4.6

Sep 15

5.1-5.2

Sep 17

5.3-5.4

Sep 22

Exam I

Chapters 1-5

Sep 24

6.1-6.4

Sep 29

7.1-7.3

Oct 1

7.4-7.5

Oct 6

8.1-8.3

Oct 8

8.4-8.6

Oct 13

Exam II

Chapters 6-8

Oct 15

13.1-13.3

Oct 20

13.4-13.7

Oct 22

9.1-9.3

Oct 27

10.1-10.3

Oct 29

10.4-10.6

Nov 5

11.1-11.3

Nov 10

Exam III

Chapters 9.1-9.4, 10.1-10.6,13.1-13.7

Nov 12

12.1-12.6

Nov 17

14.1-14.5

Nov 19

15.1-15.3

Nov 24

15.4, 15.5

Dec 1

17, 12.4 (except Thermal Stress), 7

Dec 3

20: 1,2,5,6,7,8

Finals Week

Final Exam

Chapters 12,14,15,17,20

Major Topics Covered

  • Units, Physical Quantities & Vectors

  • Motion Along a Straight Line

  • Motion in Two or Three Dimensions

  • Newton's Laws of Motion

  • Applying Newton's Laws

  • Work & Kinetic Energy

  • Potential Energy & Conservation

  • Momentum, Impulse, and Collisions

  • Rotation of Rigid Bodies

  • Dynamics of Rotational Motion

  • Equilibrium & Elasticity

  • Fluid Mechanics

  • Gravitation

  • Periodic Motion

  • Mechanical Waves

  • Sound & Hearing

  • Temperature and Heat

  • Thermal Properties of Matter

  • The First Law of Thermodynamics

  • The Second Law of Thermodynamics

Policies & Resources

  • Academic integrity is required; violations result in penalties

  • Accommodations for religious observances and disabilities are available

  • Health and safety policies must be followed

  • Grades will be assigned as described

  • Nondiscrimination statement ensures a safe learning environment

State General Education Course Description and Outcomes

This course fulfills the state-mandated general education requirements for natural sciences. Students will:

  • Describe different types of motion: translational, rotational, and simple harmonic

  • Apply Newton's laws and conservation laws to solve analytical problems

  • Identify and analyze relevant information in graphs, tables, and diagrams

  • Solve real-world problems using critical thinking skills

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