Course Overview

PHYS250 General Physics I is an introductory college-level physics course focusing on the foundational principles of mechanics, energy, heat, and fluids. The course emphasizes conceptual understanding, application of physical laws, and problem-solving skills, preparing students for further study in physics and related fields.

Course Description

• Study of linear and rotational kinematics and dynamics

• Topics include Newton's Laws of Motion, conservation of momentum, conservation of energy, heat, and fluids

• Emphasis on conceptual understanding, application, and problem-solving

Prerequisites and Co-requisites

• Prerequisite: MATH 138 or higher, or appropriate placement; familiarity with right triangle trigonometry is recommended

• Co-requisite: PHYS 250L (laboratory component)

Course Objectives and Major Topics

The following objectives align with the standard topics in a college-level introductory physics course:

• Application of significant figures, units, and unit conversions

• Analysis of motion in one and two dimensions using vectors

• Understanding the relationship between force and motion

• Application of Newton’s Laws to equilibrium, dynamics, and circular motion

• Study of Newton’s Law of Universal Gravitation

• Analysis of rotational motion, torque, and static equilibrium

• Exploration of elasticity, springs, and properties of materials

• Impulse, momentum, and conservation of momentum

• Energy concepts, conservation of energy, and energy transformations

• Thermal properties of matter, heat, and temperature

• Analysis of static and dynamic fluid systems

Course Structure and Assessment

Instructional Strategies

• Lecture-based instruction

• Practice and drill assignments

• Problem-solving sessions

• Reading assignments

• Discussion and questioning

• Group projects and case analysis

Assessment Methods

• Participation and attendance

• Homework assignments (online via Mastering Physics)

• Quizzes and worksheets

• Exams (multiple-choice and long response)

• Final exam (cumulative)

• Dynamic Learning modules (concept checks)

Grading Breakdown

Grading Scale

Tentative Course Outline

Key Physics Topics Covered

• Representing Motion: Position, displacement, velocity, and acceleration

• Motion in One and Two Dimensions: Kinematic equations, projectile motion, vector analysis

• Forces and Newton's Laws: Types of forces, free-body diagrams, equilibrium, and dynamics

• Circular Motion and Gravity: Uniform circular motion, centripetal force, Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation

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

• Equilibrium and Elasticity: Static equilibrium, elasticity, Hooke's Law

• Momentum and Impulse: Conservation of momentum, collisions, impulse-momentum theorem

• Energy and Work: Work-energy theorem, kinetic and potential energy, conservation of energy

• Thermal Properties of Matter: Temperature, heat, specific heat, calorimetry

• Fluids: Density, pressure, buoyancy, fluid dynamics

Study and Problem-Solving Strategies

• Use the "Solving Problems Practice Sheet" or the GUESS method for structured problem-solving

• Practice with end-of-chapter concept and multiple-choice questions

• Work collaboratively but ensure independent understanding

• Utilize Dynamic Learning modules and online homework for concept reinforcement

• Prepare a single equation sheet for exams (no diagrams or solved problems)

Academic Integrity and Course Policies

• Adherence to the University Honor Code is required

• Use only approved calculators (TI-30XIIS) during exams

• Late homework is penalized 1% per day per problem

• Attendance and participation are important for success

• Special accommodations are available through the Office of Accessibility

Additional Info

• Final exam is cumulative and scheduled for the last week of the course

• Contact the instructor for any grading or course concerns within one week of grade posting

• Course materials are available through Pearson My Lab and Mastering Physics

This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the course structure, expectations, and topics. For detailed content on each physics topic, refer to the assigned textbook and course materials.