Mechanics: Theory, Computation, and Experiment

Harvard FAS

This is the first term of a two-semester introductory course in physics. The focus is on quantitative scientific reasoning, with the first term exploring Newtonian mechanics. Topics include kinematics, linear and rotational motion, forces, energy, momentum, collisions, gravitation, oscillations, and waves, with a brief introduction to statistical physics. Examples are drawn from across the physical sciences and engineering. Students will gain competence in both analytic (pencil and…