PHYS 1116

Physics I: Mechanics and Special Relativity

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2021-2022.

First in a three-semester introductory physics sequence. Explores quantitative modeling of the physical world through a study of mechanics. More mathematical and abstract than a typical mechanics course - for example, considers how choice of coordinate system (Cartesian, cylindrical, etc.) influences the nature of kinematical equations. Fast paced. Includes kinematics, dynamics, conservation laws, central force fields, periodic motion, and special relativity. At the level of An Introduction to Mechanics by Kleppner and Kolenkow.

When Offered Fall, Spring.

Prerequisites/Corequisites Corequisite: PHYS 1110 must be taken to remain enrolled in PHYS 1116. Prerequisite: students must have Calculus II credit (AP Calculus BC, MATH 1910, MATH 1120, or equivalent). A strong high school physics course and enjoyment of puzzle-solving are expected.
Forbidden Overlaps Forbidden Overlap: due to an overlap in content, students will receive credit for only one course in the following group: EAS 1600, PHYS 1101, PHYS 1112, PHYS 1116, PHYS 2207. In addition, students may not receive credit for both PHYS 1116 and PHYS 2216.

Distribution Category (PBS-AS, PHS-AS)

Comments More mathematically and conceptually sophisticated than PHYS 1112. Intended for students who are comfortable with a deeper, somewhat more abstract approach. Also intended mainly for, but not exclusively, prospective majors in physics, astronomy, or applied and engineering physics. Transfers between PHYS 1116 and PHYS 1112 (in either direction) must occur during the first two weeks of instruction.

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