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Physics101 Class Notes

Physics is the study of matter, energy, and their interactions, encompassing branches such as mechanics and thermodynamics. Key concepts include units of measurement, motion and kinematics, Newton's laws, work and energy, momentum, thermodynamics, waves, and electricity. The notes provide foundational knowledge essential for understanding fundamental physics principles.

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160 views2 pages

Physics101 Class Notes

Physics is the study of matter, energy, and their interactions, encompassing branches such as mechanics and thermodynamics. Key concepts include units of measurement, motion and kinematics, Newton's laws, work and energy, momentum, thermodynamics, waves, and electricity. The notes provide foundational knowledge essential for understanding fundamental physics principles.

Uploaded by

matthew.b.irvin
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Physics 101 – Class Notes

Introduction to Fundamental Physics Concepts

1. What is Physics?
• Physics is the study of matter, energy, and the interactions between them.
• Branches include mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, optics, and quantum physics.

2. Units and Measurement


• SI Units:
- Length: meter (m)
- Mass: kilogram (kg)
- Time: second (s)
- Temperature: kelvin (K)
- Current: ampere (A)
- Amount of substance: mole (mol)
• Accuracy vs. Precision
• Scientific Notation and Significant Figures

3. Motion and Kinematics


• Scalars (magnitude only) vs. Vectors (magnitude + direction)
• Speed = distance / time
• Velocity = displacement / time
• Acceleration = change in velocity / time
• Equations of motion (for constant acceleration):
- v = u + at
- s = ut + 1/2at²
- v² = u² + 2as

4. Newton's Laws of Motion


• First Law (Inertia): An object remains at rest or in motion unless acted on.
• Second Law: F = ma (Force = mass × acceleration)
• Third Law: For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.

5. Work, Energy, and Power


• Work = Force × distance × cos(θ)
• Kinetic Energy = 1/2mv²
• Potential Energy = mgh
• Mechanical Energy = K.E. + P.E.
• Power = Work / time (measured in watts)

6. Momentum
• Momentum = mass × velocity (p = mv)
• Law of Conservation of Momentum: total momentum before = total after (in isolated systems)

7. Circular Motion and Gravitation


• Centripetal Force = mv² / r
• Newton’s Law of Universal Gravitation: F = G(m■m■) / r²

8. Thermodynamics
• Temperature: measure of average kinetic energy
• Heat: energy transfer due to temperature difference
• Laws of Thermodynamics:
- Zeroth: If A = B and B = C, then A = C (thermal equilibrium)
- First: Energy cannot be created or destroyed (∆U = Q - W)
- Second: Heat flows from hot to cold; entropy increases

9. Waves and Sound


• Wave types: transverse and longitudinal
• Wave properties: wavelength, frequency, amplitude, speed
• Sound: longitudinal wave, requires medium
• Speed of sound depends on medium (fastest in solids)

10. Electricity and Magnetism (Intro)


• Electric charge: positive (+) and negative (−)
• Ohm’s Law: V = IR (Voltage = Current × Resistance)
• Series vs. Parallel Circuits
• Basic magnetism: magnetic fields, poles, and electromagnets

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