Course Overview

Introduction to Physics without Calculus I

This course, PHY 2053, is the first in a two-part series designed for non-physics majors. It provides an algebra and trigonometry-based approach to fundamental physics concepts, focusing on mechanics, fluid dynamics, oscillatory motion, and waves. The course aims to develop analytical and critical thinking skills for understanding physical phenomena.

• Course Title: Physics without Calculus I

• Prerequisites: Algebra and Trigonometry

• Textbook: College Physics (11th Edition) by Hugh D. Young, Philip W. Adams

• Course Delivery: In-person

• Instructor: Prof. B. Gerstman

Course Goals and Learning Outcomes

Objectives and Skills Developed

The course is structured to enable students to quantitatively investigate cause and effect in physical phenomena, solve analytical problems, and apply critical thinking to real-world situations.

• Develop quantitative skills necessary for introductory physics.

• Relate position, velocity, acceleration, and force and interpret these graphically.

• Solve kinematic equations for unknown quantities in motion.

• Apply conservation laws (energy and momentum) to solve mechanics problems.

• Compare and relate linear and rotational dynamics.

• Describe periodic motion and its properties.

• Analyze information presented in graphs, tables, diagrams, and mathematical formulations.

• Solve real-world problems using knowledge from the course.

Course Topics and Schedule

Chapter Coverage and Sequence

The course covers Chapters 1-16 from the textbook, focusing on the following main topics:

• Ch 01: Models, Measurements & Vectors

• Ch 02: Motion Along a Straight Line

• Ch 03: Motion in a Plane

• Ch 04: Newton's Laws of Motion

• Ch 05: Applications of Newton's Laws

• Ch 06: Circular Motion & Gravitation

• Ch 07: Work & Energy

• Ch 08: Momentum

• Ch 09: Rotational Motion

• Ch 10: Dynamics of Rotational Motion

• Ch 11: Periodic Motion

• Ch 12: Mechanical Waves & Sound

• Ch 13: Fluid Mechanics

• Ch 14: Temperature & Heat

• Ch 15: Thermal Properties of Matter

• Ch 16: The Second Law of Thermodynamics

Students are expected to read assigned sections before and after lectures and practice problems from the textbook.

Assessment and Grading

Exams and Grading Policy

Student performance is evaluated through four in-person exams. No make-up exams are allowed. The grading scheme is based on the combined percentage from all exams.

Exam Schedule:

• Exam 1: Chapters 2, 3.1-3.3 (12% of course grade)

• Exam 2: Chapters 3-5 (24% of course grade)

• Exam 3: Chapters 6-8 (32% of course grade)

• Exam 4: Chapters 9-11 (32% of course grade)

Course Policies

Attendance, Academic Integrity, and Accommodations

• Attendance: Exams must be taken in-person; FIU photo IDs required.

• Academic Integrity: Violations result in an F and possible additional penalties.

• Accommodations: Available for students with physical, mental, or sensory challenges via the Disability Resource Center.

• Religious Observances: Accommodations provided for students with religious conflicts; notify instructor early.

• Nondiscrimination: FIU maintains an equitable learning environment; concerns can be reported to the Office of Civil Rights.

Study Recommendations

Effective Learning Strategies

• Read assigned textbook sections before and after lectures.

• Practice solving problems from the textbook; focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing equations.

• Interpret graphs, tables, and diagrams to enhance conceptual understanding.

• Attend office hours for additional support and clarification.

Additional info: The course emphasizes algebraic and trigonometric methods for problem-solving in physics, covering foundational mechanics and introductory thermodynamics. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking and analytical skills applicable to scientific inquiry.