PHYS 103 Fundamentals of Physics I
This algebra/trigonometry physics course is
designed to provide students with a working knowledge of the elementary
principles of classical mechanics with some heat and energy in thermal processes,
discuss applications to everyday phenomena (esp. life sciences), enhance
conceptual understanding of physical laws, and increase problem-solving
abilities as applied to physical systems. Topics investigated include: dimensional analysis, 1- and 2-D motion,
vectors, Newton’s Laws, conservation of energy/work and momentum, rotational
motion, summation of forces and torques, fluids, temperature and heat, and
energy transfer in thermal processes. This course is designed mainly for life
science majors and pre-professional students. In the laboratory portion of the
course, students learn to use common physics equipment (including
microcomputer-based sensors), analyze data, develop empirical models of
phenomena, and communicate their results through written and oral lab reports.
Hours Weekly
3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab weekly