Course Overview

Introduction to Physics 1050

Physics 1050 is a foundational college-level physics course covering classical mechanics and related topics. The syllabus outlines the course structure, grading scheme, required materials, laboratory schedule, and university policies. This guide summarizes the key elements for student success in the course.

• Class Times: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10:00-10:50am

• Classroom: SN0129

• Instructor: Dr. Idako (VIdako/Amassian)

• Course Code: PHYS-1050

• Pre-requisites: Science 1807 and Science 1808

• Course Description: Introduction to classical mechanics and related topics.

Course Materials

Textbooks and Online Resources

Students are required to use "University Physics" by Young and Freedman, 15th edition, with Mastering Physics Access code. Supplemental materials and grades are available on the D2L Brightspace portal.

• Textbook: University Physics by Young and Freedman, 15th ed.

• Online Access: Mastering Physics Access code required for assignments.

• Course Web Page: Grades and materials on D2L Brightspace; official info at mun.ca/physics/undergraduates/courses/phys1050.php

• Physics Help Centre: Located in room C3071.

Grading Scheme

Assessment Breakdown

The grading scheme details the weight of each component contributing to the final grade. Assignments, lab reports, problem sets, term tests, and the final exam are included.

Course Topics

Major Units and Subtopics

The course covers a range of topics in classical mechanics, as outlined below. Each topic is essential for understanding the principles of physics at the college level.

Additional info: The total percentage exceeds 100% due to overlapping or approximate topic weights.

Laboratory Component

Lab Schedule and Requirements

Laboratory sessions are an integral part of the course, providing hands-on experience with physical principles. Attendance and completion of lab reports are mandatory.

• Lab Locations: C2083 or C2089 (check your section)

• Lab Schedule:

  • Section 003: Monday 15:00-16:50 C-2083

  • Section 004: Tuesday 15:00-16:50 C-2083

  • Section 006: Wednesday 15:00-16:50 C-2083

  • Section 007: Thursday 15:00-16:50 C-2083

• Lab Information: Available through Brightspace: Physics 1050 Labs

• Lab Instructor: Luqia Men (luqiam@mun.ca)

• Lab Attendance: Mandatory; notify instructor within 48 hours for absences

• Lab Repeats: Not permitted for students repeating the course

Assignments and Problem Sets

Mastering Physics Online Assignments

Assignments are completed online using the Mastering Physics system. Students must register and submit work electronically.

• Assignment Submission: Via Mastering Physics online system

• Registration: Use the access code provided with the textbook

• Problem Sets: Distributed during lab periods; goal is to work on problems with help from instructors and TAs

Examinations and Term Tests

Testing and Evaluation

Term tests and the final exam assess understanding of course material. The grading scheme above details their weight.

• Term Tests: Two term tests (dates specified in syllabus)

• Final Exam: Comprehensive, covers all course topics

University Policies and Student Responsibilities

Important Regulations

Students are responsible for understanding university policies regarding missed work, academic misconduct, and accommodations.

• Missed Work: Contact instructor and consult University Calendar for regulations

• Academic Misconduct: Refer to University Code of Conduct

• Accommodations: Support available for students with disabilities

• Wellness and Support: University resources for mental health and academic support

• Use of Recording Devices: Lectures may be recorded for academic purposes

• AI Policy: Only use AI capabilities within Mastering Physics; other AI services (e.g., ChatGPT) are discouraged

Key Physics Concepts (Brief Overview)

Vectors

Vectors are quantities that have both magnitude and direction, essential for describing physical phenomena such as displacement, velocity, and force.

• Definition: A vector is a mathematical object with both magnitude and direction.

• Example: Displacement from one point to another.

• Formula:

Newton's Laws of Motion

Newton's Laws form the foundation of classical mechanics, describing the relationship between forces and motion.

• First Law (Inertia): An object remains at rest or in uniform motion unless acted upon by a net force.

• Second Law: The acceleration of an object is proportional to the net force and inversely proportional to its mass.

• Formula:

• Third Law: For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.

Work and Energy

Work and energy are central concepts in physics, relating force, motion, and the ability to do work.

• Work: Work is done when a force causes displacement.

• Formula:

• Kinetic Energy: Energy due to motion.

• Formula:

Conservation Laws

Conservation of energy and momentum are fundamental principles in physics, stating that these quantities remain constant in isolated systems.

• Conservation of Energy: Total energy in a closed system remains constant.

• Conservation of Momentum: Total momentum in a closed system remains constant.

• Formula (Momentum):

Rotational Motion

Rotational kinematics and dynamics extend the concepts of motion and force to rotating bodies.

• Angular Velocity: Rate of change of angular position.

• Formula:

• Moment of Inertia: Measure of an object's resistance to changes in rotation.

• Formula:

Periodic Motion

Periodic motion describes systems that repeat their motion in regular intervals, such as oscillations and waves.

• Simple Harmonic Motion: Motion where the restoring force is proportional to displacement.

• Formula:

Summary

This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of Physics 1050, including course structure, assessment, topics, and university policies. Students should use this guide to organize their study and ensure they meet all course requirements.