University Physics I
Undergraduate · Physics
Syllabus focus
Topics typically covered
Standard syllabus
Kinematics and Newtonian mechanics
- Vectors, coordinate systems, and unit analysis
- One- and two-dimensional motion; projectile motion
- Newton's laws and free-body diagrams
- Friction, tension, and circular motion
- Work, kinetic energy, and the work–energy theorem
Momentum and rotational motion
- Impulse, momentum, and conservation of momentum
- Collisions: elastic and inelastic
- Center of mass and systems of particles
- Torque, angular momentum, and rotational kinematics
- Equilibrium of rigid bodies and moment of inertia
Oscillations, waves, and fluids
- Simple harmonic motion and pendulums
- Mechanical waves, superposition, and standing waves
- Sound and the Doppler effect
- Fluid statics: pressure, buoyancy, and Pascal's principle
- Fluid dynamics and continuity (introduction)
STEM / applied
Engineering mechanics applications
- Stress–strain context for statics problems
- Machine elements: pulleys, levers, and gear ratios
- Vehicle dynamics: braking distance and banked curves
- Biomechanics examples: joint torques and gait
- Dimensional analysis in design problems
Measurement and lab skills
- Uncertainty propagation and significant figures
- Motion sensors, photogates, and video analysis
- Calibration and systematic error identification
- Report writing with data tables and graphs
- Safety practices in mechanics laboratories
Technology and modeling
- Spreadsheet or Python plotting of motion data
- Numerical integration for non-uniform acceleration
- Simulation tools for collision and orbit problems
- Reading technical datasheets for sensors and actuators
- Connecting lecture problems to real instrumentation
Study units
Each unit includes a study guide, worksheets, review, practice test, and answer key. One unit is free; subscribe for the full class.
- Kinematics and Newtonian mechanics
Vectors, motion, and Newton's laws for particles and systems
Coming soon - Momentum and rotational motion
Impulse, collisions, torque, and angular momentum
Coming soon - Oscillations, waves, and fluids
SHM, mechanical waves, sound, and fluid statics
Coming soon
Notes
Topics reflect common coverage in US university physics syllabi (OpenStax University Physics, Young & Freedman, and similar sequences). Exact order, depth, and applied emphasis vary by institution and instructor.