Physics 2310 Syllabus and Course Structure: Classical Mechanics and Applications

Course Overview

Introduction to Physics 2310

This course provides a broad exposure to classical mechanics, focusing on the application of mathematics to describe physical phenomena. The curriculum emphasizes vector algebra, calculus, and the use of logical reasoning to solve problems in mechanics, including kinematics, dynamics, energy, and momentum.

• Course Coordinator: Prof. Lekha Adhikari

• Lecture Instructors: Prof. James Zabel, Prof. Raquel Ribeiro, Prof. Lekha Adhikari

• Delivery Mode: In-person and live-streamed lectures

• Course Room: Physics Room 5

Course Objectives

Learning Goals

Students will develop a strong foundation in classical mechanics, with the following objectives:

• Implement basic vector algebra and calculus to explain and solve physical problems.

• Execute solutions to problems involving kinematics and dynamics in one and two dimensions.

• Analyze free-body diagrams and classify forces acting on a body.

• Explain concepts of energy and momentum and apply these to solve problems.

• Understand and describe oscillatory motion and rigid body systems.

• Communicate physical reasoning and solutions using proper scientific language.

Course Structure

Lecture Schedule and Topics

The course is organized into weekly modules, each covering specific topics in classical mechanics. Below is a summary of the main topics and their sequence:

• Vectors and Trigonometry: Units, estimates, vector operations

• Kinematics: Motion along a straight line, motion with constant acceleration, free fall

• Dynamics: Newton's laws, free-body diagrams, equilibrium, friction

• Work and Energy: Work-energy theorem, conservation of energy, energy diagrams

• Momentum: Conservation of linear momentum, inelastic collisions

• Rotational Motion: Angular velocity, angular acceleration, moment of inertia

• Oscillatory Motion: Simple harmonic motion, pendulum

• Gravitation: Newton's law of gravitation

Key Terms and Definitions

• Vector: A quantity with both magnitude and direction, used to represent physical quantities such as displacement, velocity, and force.

• Kinematics: The study of motion without considering its causes.

• Dynamics: The study of the forces and their effects on motion.

• Newton's Laws: Three fundamental laws describing the relationship between force and motion.

• Work: The product of force and displacement in the direction of the force. $W = F \cdot d \cdot \cos\theta$

• Energy: The capacity to do work. Includes kinetic and potential energy.

• Momentum: The product of mass and velocity. $p = m v$

• Moment of Inertia: A measure of an object's resistance to changes in its rotation. $I = \sum m_i r_i^2$

• Simple Harmonic Motion: Oscillatory motion under a restoring force proportional to displacement. $x(t) = A \cos(\omega t + \phi)$

Course Materials

Required Textbook and Resources

• Textbook: University Physics (15th edition), Young and Freedman (Pearson, Addison Wesley, 2018)

• Online Homework: Mastering Physics (Pearson Immediate Access Program)

• Lecture Notes and Worksheets: Provided via Canvas

Assessment and Grading

Assignments and Exams

• Quizzes: Regular quizzes on lecture topics

• Homework: Online assignments via Mastering Physics

• Checkpoints: In-class or online formative assessments

• Exams: Two midterm exams and a comprehensive final exam

Course Policies

Attendance and Participation

• Attendance is required for in-person lectures; remote participation is available for the 8:50 am lecture.

• Participation in Top Hat response system is required for extra credit.

• Make-up policies are limited; students must attend the scheduled lecture or view the recording within 24 hours.

Use of Tools

Technology and Academic Integrity

• Artificial intelligence tools may be used for explanations, but students must submit their own work.

• Calculators and other tools are allowed except during exams and quizzes.

Sample Weekly Schedule

Week	Main Topics	Assignments
1	Units, Vectors, Trigonometry	Quiz 0, Homework 0
2	Kinematics: Motion along a straight line, acceleration	Quiz 1, Homework 1
3	2D Motion, Projectile motion	Quiz 2, Homework 2
4	Newton's Laws, Free-body diagrams	Quiz 3, Homework 3
5	Work, Energy, Conservation of Energy	Quiz 4, Homework 4
6	Momentum, Collisions	Quiz 5, Homework 5
7	Rotational Motion, Angular Momentum	Quiz 6, Homework 6
8	Oscillatory Motion, Simple Harmonic Motion	Quiz 7, Homework 7
9	Gravitation, Review	Quiz 8, Homework 8

Important Equations

• Kinematic Equation: $v = v_0 + a t$

• Newton's Second Law: $F = m a$

• Work-Energy Theorem: $W = \Delta K$

• Conservation of Momentum: $m_1 v_1 + m_2 v_2 = m_1 v_1' + m_2 v_2'$

• Rotational Kinetic Energy: $K_{rot} = \frac{1}{2} I \omega^2$

• Gravitational Force: $F = G \frac{m_1 m_2}{r^2}$

Additional Info

• Students are encouraged to use office hours and online resources for additional support.

• All exams are in-person and proctored on campus.

• Homework and quizzes are administered via Canvas and Mastering Physics.