Physics 253
Fundamentals of Physics I:
Mechanics
Dr. Fortner
FW 204
mfortner@niu.edu
Course Content
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Physics—the science of energy and matter.
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Mechanics—the motion (or lack thereof) of physical objects
Physical quantities describe behavior
Physical quantities are related to each other
Theoretical relations predict behavior
Mathematics
• Tool for understanding physics
• Algebra and trigonometry are essential (MATH 155)
• Calculus will be used sparingly (co-requisite MATH 229)
Course Topics
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Measurement and motion
Motion in two and three dimensions
Newton’s laws of force
Circular motion and gravity
Conservation of energy
Conservation of momentum
Conservation of angular momentum
Web Pages
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www.niu.edu/~mfortner/Phys
253.html
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Description and goals
Lecture slides
Laboratory handouts
Assignments:
www.masteringphysics.com
• Grading scale
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Text: Giancoli, Physics for
Scientists & Engineers
Lectures
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Powerpoint slides
• Corresponds to text sections in reading
• Different than text
• Students are responsible for both
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Demonstrations
• Interactive questions
• Physical demonstrations
• Web and electronic media demonstrations
Laboratories
Experimental labs
Problem labs
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Measurement techniques
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Story problem interpretation
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Data analysis
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Equation handling
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Data presentation
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Solution strategy
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8 Experimental Labs
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4 Problem Labs
Problems and Quizzes
Problems
Quizzes
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Due the day of the quiz
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Multiple choice, short answer
and problems
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Solutions and help available
in the Help Room (FR 225)
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Throw out the lowest grade
of the seven quizzes
Use TA and instructor office
hours for help if needed
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Final equal to two quizzes
and covers the whole course
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Suggestions
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Skim the text before class to get a head start on the
lecture.
Don’t just take notes in class (try to also listen).
Slides are on the web page and can be printed out.
Do problems, they are great practice.
Use additional web resources from the publisher.
Ask questions: in class and in lab.
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