PH 245 - Calculus Physics I

1. Apply scalar algebra, vector algebra, differential calculus, and integral calculus to solve quantitative problems in classical mechanics. (GELO 7)
2. Apply the principles of kinematics to solve constant and variable acceleration problems in one and two dimensions for both translational and rotational motion.
3. Apply Newton’s Laws of motion to solve for unknown quantities in two dimensional situations involving multiple forces or torques.
4. Use the framework of calculus to solve for the center of mass and moments of inertia of extended bodies.
5. Apply conservation of energy and conservation of momentum to solve for unknown quantities in physical situations with translational and rotational motion.
6. Use Newtonian mechanics to describe the phenomenon of physical oscillations and mechanical waves.
7. Apply Archimedes’ and Bernoulli’s Principles to solve for unknown quantities in incompressible fluid mechanics.
8. State the laws of thermodynamics and use them to solve for unknown quantities in system undergoing thermodynamic change.
9. Design and execute laboratory experiments to investigate the accuracy of physics theory in predicting experimental outcomes. (GELO 7)
10. Analyze data by constructing graphs, calculating error, and identifying sources of experimental uncertainty. (GELO 3)

A. Compound unit conversion

B. Finding unknown units

C. Vector addition and subtraction

D. Scalar product

E. Cross product

II. One and Two Dimensional Motion

A. Kinematical variable definition

B. Kinematic variables graphical relationships

C. Constant acceleration problems

D. Variable acceleration problems

E. Uniform circular motion

III. Dynamics

A. Modeling dynamical systems

B. Free body diagrams

C. Linear dynamics problems

D. Uniform circular motion

IV. Energy

A. Definition

B. Work-energy theorem

C. Conservative-nonconservative forces

D. Potential energy

E. Conservation of energy

F. Power

V. Momentum

A. Definition

B. Impulse approximation

C. Inelastic collision

D. Elastic collision

E. Center of mass

VI. Torque and Rotational Motion

A. Angular kinematics

B. Moment of Inertia

C. Torque

D. Complex angular dynamics problems

E. Angular momentum

F. Statics and strength of materials

VII. Simple Harmonic Motion

A. Springs

B. Simple pendulum

C. Combined spring-pendula systems

D. Damped systems

VIII. Mechanical Waves

A. Traveling Waves

B. Waves Equations for Strings and Sound

C. Power and Intensity for Mechanical Waves

D. Standing Waves for Strings and Sound

E. The Doppler Effect

XIII. Fluid Mechanics

A. Fluid Pressure

B. Pascal’s Principle

C. Archimedes’ Principle

D. Bernoulli’s Principle

IX. Thermodynamics

A. Thermal expansion

B. Calorimetry

C. Heat transfer

D. Ideal gas law

E. Basic kinematic theory

F. Laws of thermodynamics

G. Heat engines

Homework/Tutorials: 20-30%

Labs: 30-35%

In Class Assignments: 0-10%

 
Mandatory Course Components:
None
Equivalent Courses:
None

Essential judgment skills include the ability to identify, assess, and comprehend situations for the purpose of problem solving and coming to appropriate conclusions and/or course of actions.  Specifically, students must be able to:

• Apply mathematical concepts to solve problems

• Discern relevant and irrelevant information when solving problems

• Express knowledge of the appropriate level of physics in written and/or verbal formats

• Draw conclusions based on knowledge and experimental results

• Recognize unsafe situations  in a laboratory environment 

Essential physical/neurological functions include the ability to use the senses of sight, hearing, touch, and smell. Students must meet expectations necessary to safely perform tasks required to study physics, which include the need for manual dexterity and the ability to use sight and hearing. Specifically, students must be able to:

• Manipulate equipment and materials to prepare for and conduct laboratory procedures.

• Write in a laboratory notebook during the course of a laboratory experiment

• Observe and measure physical quantities ( mass, length, time, etc.) during laboratory exercises

• Read and /or hear laboratory directions that involve either experimental procedures or safety concerns

• Inform the course instructor of any allergies (chemical, latex etc.) that may lead to an allergic reaction

Essential communication skills include the ability to communicate effectively with fellow students, faculty, and all members of the Physical Sciences department. Specifically, students must be able to:

• Understand written and verbal direction when completing tasks and assignments associated with the lecture portion of science courses

• Understand written and verbal directions when completing laboratory tasks and assignments

• Understand written and verbal directions when following all Departmental safety rules and procedures

• Communicate any issues that involve health or safety in a laboratory environment

• Use information technology skills consistent with effective communication.

Essential emotional coping skills include the ability to demonstrate the mental health necessary to safely engage in the practice of scientific discovery.  Specifically, students must be able to:

• Engage in multitasking without becoming overly stressed

• Practice safe laboratory procedures and be mindful of the safety of others

• Realize that mechanical and electrical interactions can have consequences if the correct safety procedures are not followed

• Collaborate with lab partners to complete a task in the classroom or laboratory

Essential intellectual/conceptual skills include the ability to measure, calculate, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate to engage competently in the safe practice of physics. Specifically, students must be able to:

• Select appropriate methods to solve mathematical problems

• Use a calculator to complete calculations

• Use a computer to generate graphs and reports

• Use equipment to make measurements 

• Analyze graphical data and/ or concepts

• Express an understanding of the concepts learned in physics in written form or verbally

Other essential behavioral attributes include the ability to engage in activities consistent with safe practice without demonstrated behaviors of addiction to, abuse of, or dependence on alcohol or other drugs that may impair behavior or judgment. The student must demonstrate responsibility and accountability for actions as a student in the Physical Sciences Department and as a developing professional in the sciences consistent with accepted standards of practice.

Grand Rapids Community College strives to be more than ADA compliant. We strive to be accessible and welcoming to all students of all abilities. After reviewing the Essential Abilities/Technical Standards for this program; your responsibilities as a student entail determining if you can complete all associated coursework either:

1. With Accommodation. I am otherwise qualified to meet the same academic standards as any other student entering the program. However, based on a medically documented condition or diagnosis, I would qualify for reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990). I will meet with Disability Support Services on campus to arrange those accommodations in an interactive process with the department of Physical Sciences.

2. Without Accommodation. I am able to complete the program without need for reasonable accommodation or modification. In the event my medical documentation reveals otherwise or a condition manifests that would necessitate an accommodation; it is my responsibility to inform a responsible authority figure within the department of (field of study) and work with Disability Support Services to see if a reasonable accommodation or modification can be made.

If you have a medically documented condition or diagnosis, please contact the (field of study) office, or contact Disability Support Services (DSS) at disability@grcc.edu or by phone at 616.234.4140 to arrange accommodations through our interactive process.