PHY100H5 Syllabus and Study Guide: Introduction to Physics Concepts and Course Structure

Course Overview

Introduction to Physics and Its Relevance

This course, "What's Physics Got to Do With It?" (PHY100H5), is designed for students without prior training in physics or advanced mathematics. It aims to introduce fundamental physics concepts and their applications in everyday life and modern technology. The course covers a broad range of topics, from classical mechanics to modern physics, emphasizing conceptual understanding over mathematical complexity.

• Course Focus: Understanding the universe through physics, exploring both foundational and advanced topics.

• Applications: Everyday phenomena such as energy sources, laser surgery, flat-screen TVs, wireless communications, GPS, and more.

• Advanced Topics: Time travel, relativity, ultracold atoms, quantum entanglement, black holes, and the Higgs boson.

• Prerequisites: None required; high school algebra is recommended.

Course Learning Outcomes

Skills and Knowledge Developed

• Scientific Method: Training in making judgments based on physical principles and experimental evidence.

• Limits of Theories: Understanding the boundaries and applicability of scientific theories.

• Numeracy and Units: Developing basic numeracy skills and interpreting various units of measurement.

• Critical Thinking: Applying inquiry skills, dimensional analysis, estimation, and order of magnitude reasoning.

• Problem Solving: Improving abilities in reading, understanding, and solving physics problems.

• Newtonian Mechanics: Explaining Newton's laws of motion and gravity.

• Electricity and Magnetism: Understanding basic concepts in these areas.

• Communication: Clearly and concisely communicating scientific knowledge in written form.

Course Structure and Assessment

Assessment Components

Assessment	Percent	Details	Due Date
Assignments	25%	8 Assignments, online submission via Quercus	Ongoing
Midterm Test	25%	In-person, covers material up to test date	2026-02-27
Final Assessment	50%	2-hour in-person exam, cumulative	Final Exam Period

Late Policy: 10% deduction per day late unless special consideration is granted.

Course Materials

Textbooks and Resources

• Required Textbook: Conceptual Physics, 13th edition, Paul G. Hewitt (Pearson, 2022).

• Other Useful Textbooks:

  • Physics: Concepts and Connections, 5th ed., Art Hobson

  • How Things Work: The Physics of Everyday Life, Louis A. Bloomfield

• Popular Physics Books and Websites:

  • The Feynman Lectures on Physics

  • The Character of Physical Law, Richard Feynman

  • The Flying Circus of Physics, Jearl Walker

  • MinutePhysics (YouTube channel)

Key Physics Topics (as indicated by the syllabus and textbook)

Core Physics Concepts

• Newton's Laws of Motion: Fundamental principles describing the relationship between forces and motion.

• Gravity: The universal force of attraction between masses.

• Mechanics: Study of motion, forces, energy, and momentum.

• Electricity and Magnetism: Basic concepts including electrostatics, electric current, and magnetism.

• Modern Physics: Introduction to relativity, quantum mechanics, and advanced topics such as black holes and the Higgs boson.

Example: Understanding how Newton's laws explain the motion of everyday objects, or how the concept of energy applies to technologies like GPS and wireless communication.

Study and Problem-Solving Strategies

How to Succeed in Physics

• Consistent Study: Learn material day by day; avoid cramming before exams.

• Practice: Develop problem-solving skills through regular practice and assignments.

• Conceptual Understanding: Focus on grasping underlying principles, not just memorizing formulas.

• Group Study: Form study groups for discussion and collaborative learning (while maintaining academic integrity).

• Use Assignments: Assignments are designed to reinforce concepts and scientific reasoning.

• Instructor Support: Utilize office hours and resources provided by the instructor and teaching staff.

Academic Integrity and Course Policies

Expectations and Support

• Academic Honesty: Adhere to the University’s Code of Behaviour on Academic Matters; plagiarism and cheating are strictly prohibited.

• Absence and Special Consideration: Use the ACORN Absence Declaration Tool for short-term absences; provide documentation for longer or repeated absences.

• Equity and Inclusion: The course environment is expected to be respectful, inclusive, and supportive of diversity.

• Accessibility: Students with disabilities or health considerations are encouraged to seek accommodations early.

• Mental Health: Various university resources are available for student support.

Additional Resources and Support

Academic and Library Support

• Robert Gillespie Academic Skills Centre (RGASC): Offers workshops and individual support for academic skills, including writing, time management, and mathematics.

• UTM Library: Provides research assistance, access to books and journals, and technology-enriched spaces for study and collaboration.

Summary Table: Key Course Information

Component	Details
Course Code	PHY100H5 S
Instructor	Dr. Wagih Ghobriel
Required Textbook	Conceptual Physics, 13th ed., Paul G. Hewitt
Assessment	Assignments (25%), Midterm (25%), Final (50%)
Prerequisites	None
Course Website	www.q.utoronto.ca

Conclusion

This syllabus outlines a comprehensive introduction to physics, emphasizing conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and real-world applications. Students are encouraged to engage actively with the material, utilize available resources, and maintain academic integrity throughout the course.