121 Syllabus
PHY-121 is the first part of a three-semester sequence in introductory physics
offered to engineering and other science and pre-professional majors.
The prerequisite for PHY-121 is MAT-270. A working
familiarity with basic differential and integral calculus will be assumed.
PHY-121 covers the subject of Newtonian mechanics including kinematics (the
description of motion), and dynamics (the relation of motion to force and mass).
Among the most important topics are Newton's Laws of Motion and the
conservation of momentum and energy. Other topics are rotational kinematics
and dynamics, Newtonian gravitation, and simple harmonic motion. A detailed
list of topics can be found on the
lecture schedule which accompanies this syllabus.
The textbook is Physics for Scientists and Engineers, by Wolfson and
Pasachoff, Third Edition, (Addison Wesley, 1999.) Reading assignments
are keyed to this textbook. At the bookstore,
the textbook should come packaged with Mastering Physics. Mastering
Physics is required. If you buy a used textbook, then you must buy
Mastering Physics separately at the bookstore. Also
required is a PRS (Personal Response System)
transmitter, also available at the bookstore.
The text of the syllabus is also available as a
pdf file.
Course Format and Policies
Homework Schedule
Lecture Schedule Exam Date and Time Are Here
PRS Information
Mastering Physics Information
Course Updates
12/05 Test 5 Solutions Now Available
Answers to Homework Problems
Derivations: Parallel Axis Theorem System Kinetic Energy
Hint for Yo-Yo Problem: Push the Trike
PLACES TO GET HELP
My Office Hours Physics Festivals!
TA Office Hours
Physics Dept Tutor List
Help Study Schedule
ActivPhysics Wolfson's Interactive Web Site
Textbook Sites - practice tests and more
Online Tutorials - interactive instruction
GRADES: PRS Grades by recitation
Note that grades are not listed in alphabetical order
7:40 lecture:
Tue 340 <>
Wed 1240 <>
Wed 240 <>
Fri 1240 <>
Fri 440
8:40 lecture:
Wed 1140 <>
Wed 340 <>
Wed 540 <>
Fri 240 <>
Fri 340 <>
Fri 440
Class Average 7:40<>8:40 Final Average Now Available
HOW TO FIGURE YOUR FINAL GRADE.