Course Overview

Introduction to PHYS 1061: Elementary Classical Physics I

This undergraduate, calculus-based course is designed primarily for students majoring in physics, chemistry, engineering, geology, and mathematics. PHYS 1061 is the first semester of a two-part sequence in classical physics, focusing on classical mechanics. The second course (PHYS 1062) covers electricity and magnetism.

Main Topics

Topics Covered in PHYS 1061

• One- and Two-Dimensional Motion: Study of objects moving in straight lines and planes, including position, velocity, and acceleration.

• Elementary Vector Algebra: Mathematical tools for describing physical quantities with both magnitude and direction.

• Newtonian Mechanics (Dynamics): Analysis of forces and motion using Newton's laws.

• Work and Energy: Concepts of work, kinetic energy, potential energy, and the work-energy theorem.

• Conservation of Energy: Principle stating that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed.

• Conservation of Linear Momentum and Collisions: Study of momentum in isolated systems and analysis of elastic and inelastic collisions.

• Rotational Kinematics and Dynamics: Motion of rotating bodies, including angular velocity and acceleration.

• Conservation of Angular Momentum: Principle stating that angular momentum remains constant in the absence of external torques.

• Newton's Law of Gravitation: Universal law describing the gravitational force between masses.

• Fundamentals of Thermodynamics: Introduction to heat, temperature, and the laws governing energy transfer.

Course Format

Structure and Organization

• 2+2 Format: 2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of recitation each week.

• Lab Component: Students must enroll separately in a laboratory section, which complements the lecture and recitation material.

• Location: Lectures are held in SERC 116. Recitations are held in Lecture Halls 108A and 108B, depending on the section.

Prerequisites

Required Background

• Algebra and Trigonometry: A strong background is required.

• Calculus: Must be taken concurrently with this course at minimum.

Additional Notes

• Students cannot receive credit for both PHYS 1061 and PHYS 2021.

• PHYS 1061 satisfies the University Core Science & Technology First Level (SA) requirement.

• To determine which courses satisfy the GenEd Science & Technology requirement, consult your academic advisor.

Academic Honesty

Temple University Policy

• Plagiarism and Cheating: Strictly prohibited. Violations may result in penalties such as reprimand, failing grades, or suspension.

• Students must complete all assignments and exams independently unless otherwise specified.

• Refer to the official policy for details: Temple University Student Responsibilities

Main Advice for Success

Effective Study Strategies

• Read the relevant material before class.

• Practice problems regularly, not just before exams.

• Engage with the textbook as a primary learning resource.

• Actively use the book as a learning tool, not just for reference.

Example: Students who rely only on lecture notes or last-minute studying often struggle. The textbook introduces concepts and supports deeper understanding.

Instructors and Contact Information

Lecture Course and Coordinator

• Professor Maria Iavarone (iavarone@temple.edu)

• Office Hours: MW 1:00-1:50 PM or by appointment (SERC 440)

Recitation Instructors

• Professor Chen, Professor Posi, Professor Salazar, Professor Luhmann, Professor Tanenok

• Office hours and locations vary by section (see syllabus for details).

Course Materials

Required Texts and Resources

• Textbook: Young and Freedman, University Physics 15th ed. (e-version acceptable)

• Mastering Physics Account: Online homework bundled with textbook.

• Learning Catalytics: Clicker questions bundled with textbook.

• Single-term access: $59.99 (Pearson eText, 16 weeks)

• Multi-term access: $134.99 (Pearson eText, 24 months)

How to Register for Mastering Physics via Canvas

1. Log into Canvas using Temple credentials.

2. Navigate to PHYS 1061 course page.

3. Click "Access Pearson" link.

4. Create or sign in to your Pearson account.

5. Purchase access or enter an access code.

6. Confirm registration and start using MyLab.

Homework

Structure and Submission

• Weekly pre-lecture readings (RAR)

• Weekly pre-lecture quizzes (RQ) – Conceptual/numerical problems

• Mastering Physics Homework (PS) – Linked from Canvas

• No late homework will be accepted.

• Lowest RQ and PS homework scores will be dropped.

Quizzes and Exams

Assessment Details

• All quizzes and exams are "closed book". Equation sheets provided for all quizzes and exams.

• Two midterm exams and one final exam.

• Midterm Exam 1: Monday 10/6, 5:15-6:45 PM

• Midterm Exam 2: Tuesday 11/11, 5:15-6:45 PM

• Final Exam: Thursday 12/11, 3:30-5:30 PM

• Exams emphasize recent material and cumulative understanding.

• No make-up quizzes or exams except for documented emergencies.

Accommodations

Support for Students with Disabilities

• Temple University provides accessible instruction, including assistive technology and instructional materials.

• Contact Disability Resources and Services (DRS) at 215-204-1280 in 100 Ritter Annex for accommodations.

Key Equations and Concepts (from Syllabus Topics)

Classical Mechanics – Essential Formulas

• Newton's Second Law:

• Kinematic Equations (constant acceleration):

• Work-Energy Theorem:

• Conservation of Energy: (where is kinetic energy, is potential energy)

• Conservation of Momentum:

• Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation:

• Angular Momentum:

• First Law of Thermodynamics:

Course Policies Table

Additional info: This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the course structure, expectations, and key topics in classical mechanics, suitable for college-level physics students preparing for PHYS 1061.