Mar 28, 2024  
2011-2012 Official General Catalog 
    
2011-2012 Official General Catalog [Archived Catalog]

PHY 181 - Physics for Engineers & Scientists I: Mechanics and Thermodynamics


Engineering Physics, sometimes called “University Physics,” uses calculus in the development of principles.  The topics include the description of motion and the causes of motion, with the ideas of force, energy, power, and momentum; equilibrium and rotation; and heat and its effects.  This course is designed for students studying engineering, computing, science, or mathematics.  Laboratory experiences will provide you with problem solving techniques, measurement skills and applications of theory.

Prerequisite- Corequisite
Prerequisite:  Minimum grade of 80 in Math B (H.S.) or a minimum of B in Math 156 Algebra and Trigonometry for Calculus, or C in MAT 181 Calculus I (preferred).  Minimum grade of 80 in H.S. Physics or C in PHY 161 Physics I:  Mechanics and Heat.

Corequisite:  MAT 182 Calculus II (preferred)

Prior or Concurrent:  MAT 181 Calculus I

 

Credits: 4
Hours
3 Class Hours, 3 Laboratory Hours
Course Profile
Learning Outcomes of the Course:

Upon successful completion of this course the student will be able to:

1.  Compute vector sums, scalar products, and vector cross products.
2.  Solve problems involving displacement, velocity and acceleration for one dimensional translating systems at the level of elementary differential and integral calculus.
3.  Solve the two dimensional kinematics problems of projectile and circular motions.
4.  Apply Newton’s three laws to static and dynamic physical situations.
5.  Use the concept of kinetic and potential energy along with the work-energy principle to solve mechanics problems with constant and position dependent forces.
6.  Calculate the center of mass and energy of motion for discrete and continuous mass distributions.
7.  Solve one, two, and three dimensional collision processes.
8.  Use the concepts of torque, angular momentum, and moment of inertia in rotating systems.
9.  Solve equilibrium problems with concurrent and non-concurrent forces.
10.  Solve problems involving simple harmonic motion with analyses based on ordinary second order differential equations.
11.  Apply the Universal Law of Gravitation and resulting potential energy function to two body systems.
12.  Solve problems using Pascal’s, Archimedes and Bernoulli’s principles and the elastic properties of solids.
13.  Compute the thermal expansion of various materials and use specific heat capacities to solve problems.
14.  Use the first and second laws of thermodynamics to solve problems including heat engines and heat pumps.