PHYS 150 - Physics for Engineers I

Unit(s): 4

This is the first course of a two-semester sequence in calculus-based introductory physics for engineers. The principles of mechanics provide the foundational language and concepts used in engineering to describe and understand the physical world. This course introduces measurement, kinematics, forces, energy, and conservation laws with emphasis on an asset-based approach in which the prior experiences of the student are brought forward as part of the learning process. We incorporate mathematical concepts from the calculus co-requisite course as they are intrinsically connected to physical phenomena. Practice in graphical and qualitative reasoning help the student to recognize this connection in addition to the use of mathematical formulas for numerical results. Through the laboratory section of the course students learn the basic tasks involved in scientific investigation, such as data taking, data analysis, team work, and written communication-synthesizing these skills in the completion of applied projects.

Prerequisite: concurrent MATH 109
Corequisite: PHYS-150L
Restriction: Field of Study restricted to Engineering Major
College of Arts and Sciences