2023-2024 Pierce College Catalog 
    
    Nov 24, 2024  
2023-2024 Pierce College Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

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PHYS& 221 Engineering Physics I (6 credits)



Distribution Area Fulfilled Natural Sciences with Lab; General Transfer Elective
Formerly PHYS 121 - CCN

Prerequisite Concurrent enrollment in or completion of MATH& 152  or instructor permission.

Course Description
The first quarter of a three-quarter sequence in calculus-based physics for science and engineering students. Topics covered include mechanics, kinematics, force, work, energy, momentum, and kinematics & dynamics of rotation. Lab included.

Course Content
Math review, vector algebra
Kinematics in one and two dimensions 
Newton's laws for linear and angular motion
Work done by constant and varying forces, and conservative and non-conservative forces
Mechanical energy: spring and gravitational potential energy, translational and rotational kinetic energy, conservation of energy
Linear momentum and impulse
Conservation of linear momentum, elastic and inelastic collisions
Center of mass
Rotational kinematics
Moment of inertia
Torque, angular momentum, conservation of angular momentum
Conditions for equilibrium of rigid bodies
Gravity, Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation

Laboratory skills such as:
a. Measurement and reporting of uncertainties
b. Data and error analysis
c. Graphical techniques and probability distributions
d. Use of computer programming tools
e. Production of technical reports

Student Outcomes
1. Qualitatively and quantitatively describe the natural world by applying the principles of physics related to mechanics.

2. Effectively communicate symbolic relationships by correctly relating each physical quantity of mechanics to the symbol that represents it and the unit specific to the quantity.

3. Demonstrate appropriate skills/strategies to solve physical problems related to mechanics.

4. Interpret experiments using measurement tools and data analysis to draw meaningful conclusions about physical systems.

5. Demonstrate effective collaboration skills to solve problems, conduct laboratory experiments, and produce reports.

Degree Outcomes
Natural Sciences: Graduates use the scientific method to analyze natural phenomena and acquire skills to evaluate authenticity of data/information relative to the natural world.

Critical, Creative and Reflective Thinking: Graduates will evaluate, analyze, synthesize, and generate ideas; construct informed, meaningful, and justifiable conclusions; and process feelings, beliefs, biases, strengths, and weaknesses as they relate to their thinking, decisions, and creations.

Lecture Contact Hours 40
Lab Contact Hours 40
Clinical Contact Hours 0
Total Contact Hours 80

Potential Methods
Students will be assessed in the following:

Exams/Quizzes
Laboratory reports

In addition students may also be assessed in the following:

Homework
Projects
Other class assignments such as class participation, group discussions, etc.



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