PHYS 102 Basic Physics I

School of University Arts and Sciences

Physics 102 Basic Physics I is an algebra-based survey of mechanics. Course material includes basic concepts of vectors, particle kinematics and dynamics, energy, momentum, circular and rotational motion, thermal properties of matter, vibrations and sound, and fluids.

Prerequisites: Physics 11 or PHYS 50 or Principles of Math 12 or Pre-calculus Math 12 or MATH 60 with a minimum of 60%

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Students who would like an academic accommodation and who have a documented disability should contact Accessibility Services, if they have not already done so.

Transfer Agreements

Course to Course transfer – YesBlock Transfer – Yesbctransferguide.ca
Course Details
Total number of weeks15
Total Credits
Total Hours90
Typical hours per week breakdown
Lecture3
Lab (lab, field, computer)3

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to:

  1. Recognize that a role of physics is to describe phenomena of the natural world
  2. Show correct use of physics notation, including symbols, units, and vectors
  3. Apply a variety of problem-solving strategies in familiar and unfamiliar situations
  4. Discover the limitations of basic physics knowledge in trying to model real world phenomena
  5. Explain basic linear and oscillatory motion of everyday objects with graphing and algebraic techniques
  6. Apply Newton’s laws to a variety of first-year level forces problems
  7. Discuss everyday examples of the fluids and thermodynamics concepts covered in class
  8. Use electronic sensors and computer software in the physics lab in order to measure an object’s various mechanics quantities
  9. Communicate a written solution to a physics problem in a detailed and logical approach that peers in the physical sciences can readily follow
  10. Exhibit professional behaviours such as respect for colleagues and peers, punctuality, willingness to think independently, and pride in presentation of work

Teaching and Learning Approach

In class, concepts and formulae will be presented in a variety of methods, including typical black-board notes, PowerPoint slides, videos, and demonstrations. Students’ questions are encouraged and group discussions happen on occasion. Problem solving is a major component of this course, so expect often to engage in attempting a problem prior to the solution being presented on the board. The lab provides opportunities to develop hands-on skills, to collaborate with peers, to learn methods of scientific investigations, and to confirm theoretical results.

Learning Resources

Required: st P. Urone, Hinrichs, Dirks, et al., College Physics 2e, OpenStax, 2022. (1 edition is also suitable) Available for free online at: https://openstax.org/details/books/college-physics-2e or for purchase as a print copy from the college bookstore. Recommended: Student Solutions Guide to accompany the textbook, available online. Instructor’s Learn course page to accompany the course.

Detailed Course Content, Topics, and Sequence Covered

1. Welcome, math review, units, and measurement 2. 1-D Kinematics 3. Vectors & 2-D kinematics 4. Projectiles and circular motion 5. Forces I 6. Forces II 7. Forces II & Energy and work 8. Conservation of energy & power 9. Impulse & conservation of linear momentum 10. Heat & thermal conductivity 11. Review 12. Thermal radiation and expansion 13. Fluids 14. Fluids & Course Review 15. Final Exam Weeks

Assessment

TitleLearning OutcomesValue
Assignments1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 1012%
Quizzes3, 5, 6, 1010%
Laboratory Reports1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 1020%
Tests1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 1028%
Final Exam1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 1030%
Total100%

Grading Table

Standard Academic and Career Programs Grading Table

Percentage Letter Grade GPA
90-100 A+ 4.33
85-89 A 4.00
80-84 A- 3.67
76-79 B+ 3.33
72-75 B 3.00
68-71 B- 2.67
64-67 C+ 2.33
60-63 C 2.00
55-59 C- 1.67
50-54 P 1.00
0-49 F 0.00
DNW 0.00

See the Academic Calendar for General Information including how to withdraw from course(s) and other regulations.

Disclaimer

Information contained in this course outline is correct at the time of publication. Content of the course is revised on an ongoing basis to ensure relevance to changing educational, employment and market needs. The instructor will endeavor to provide notice of changes to students as soon as possible. The instructor reserves the right to add or delete material from courses.