PHYS106 Physics A
Department of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics: Physics
- I. Course Number and Title
- PHYS106 Physics A
- II. Number of Credits
- 4 credits
- III. Number of Instructional Minutes
- 4500 minutes
- IV. Prerequisites
- MATH120 (C or better) or Math Placement Test score of 8 or higher
- Corequisites
- None
- V. Other Pertinent Information
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This course meets the General Education requirement for Scientific Literacy.
This course includes a laboratory component.
This course requires student access to a scientific calculator.
Student mathematical preparation for this course must include performance level skills in arithmetic, scientific notation, algebra, and trigonometry. The student must also be able to efficiently carry out numerical calculations on a graphing scientific calculator. - VI. Catalog Course Description
- This lecture and laboratory course provides a non-calculus study of the fundamental laws and properties of matter, mechanics, heat, and sound. This course places emphasis on the mathematical solution of problems based on an understanding of the underlying physical phenomena.
- VII. Required Course Content and Direction
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Course Learning Goals
Students will:
- apply fundamental principles of mathematics, physics, engineering, and laboratory measurements to solve accessible science and engineering technology problems as related to physics mechanics [Scientific Literacy];
- employ the techniques and skills necessary for the sciences and for the applied engineering technology practice;
- identify, formulate, and solve science and engineering technology problems in the area of physics mechanics;
- analyze experimental data and evaluate the results of observations, including an assessment of experimental uncertainties;
- operate as part of a team; and
- write scientific laboratory reports.
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Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities
The following topics are presented:
- measurement and the nature of the scientific process
- kinematics in one and two dimensions
- forces and Newton’s laws of motion
- work and the conservation of energy principle
- impulse and the conservation of momentum principle
- elastic properties of solids and simple harmonic motion
- static and dynamic properties of fluids
- temperature, heat, and the transfer of thermal energy
- properties of waves and the behavior of sound
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Assessment Methods for Course Learning Goals
Exams, quizzes, homework, teamwork assessment, and laboratory reports as specified in the individual instructor's syllabus will be utilized. In order to pass this course, a student must pass the laboratory portion of the course. The laboratory portion comprises at least 20% of the course grade. -
Reference, Resource, or Learning Materials to be used by Student:
Students use educational resources as approved by the department and specified in the individual instructor’s syllabus.
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Review/Approval Date - 10/98; Revised 4/2012; New Core 8/2015