Mechanics, Concepts, Calculations, and Context

Catalog description

Physics 41E (Physics 41 Extended) is a 5-unit version of Physics 41 (4 units) for students with little or no high school physics. Course topics and mathematical complexity are similar, but not identical to Physics 41. There is an additional class meeting every week, and attendance at all class sessions is mandatory. The extra classroom time and corresponding extra study time outside of class allows students to engage with concepts and become fluent in mathematical tools that include vector representations and operations, and relevant calculus. There is a strong emphasis on developing problem-solving skills, particularly as applied to real world examples, to leave students prepared for subsequent engineering, physics, or related courses they may take. The course will explore important physical principles in mechanics including: using Newton's Laws and torque to analyze static structures and forces; understanding the equations of kinematics; and utilizing energy in its many forms and applications. It is required that you take Math 21 before taking the next course in the Physics 40 series, Physics 43. Priority will be given to students who have had little physics background.