PHYS A120: Algebra-Based Physics 1: Mechanics with Lab
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Curriculum Committee Approval Date | 12/06/2023 |
| Top Code | 190200 - Physics, General |
| Units | 4 Total Units |
| Hours | 108 Total Hours (Lecture Hours 54; Lab Hours 54) |
| Total Outside of Class Hours | 0 |
| Course Credit Status | Credit: Degree Applicable (D) |
| Material Fee | No |
| Basic Skills | Not Basic Skills (N) |
| Repeatable | No |
| Open Entry/Open Exit | No |
| Grading Policy | Standard Letter (S),
|
| Associate Arts Local General Education (GE) |
|
| Associate Science Local General Education (GE) |
|
| California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) |
|
| Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) |
|
| California State University General Education Breadth (CSU GE-Breadth) |
|
Course Description
The first semester of a two-semester sequence with lab (PHYS A120/A125) covering an algebra/trigonometry-based study of all topics in basic physics. Core topics for this first semester include: classical mechanics, including waves and fluids, and thermodynamics. Intended for CSU transfer biology majors as well as students needing a one-year sequence in algebra/trigonometry-based physics as a requirement for their major program. Students needing calculus-based physics (e.g. UC transfer biology majors) should enroll in the PHYS A130/A135 or PHYS A185/A280/A285 sequence. PREREQUISITE: MATH A120, prior completion of a course covering Trigonometry. Transfer Credit: CSU; UC: Credit Limitation: PHYS A120, PHYS A125, PHYS A130, PHYS A135 and PHYS A185, PHYS A280, PHYS A285 combined: maximum credit, 1 series. C-ID: PHYS 105.C-ID: PHYS 105.
Course Level Student Learning Outcome(s)
- State the basic principles of mechanics and thermodynamics, define important scientific terms in these areas, and provide explanations of how they apply to real-world situations.
- Apply algebra, trigonometry, and conceptual reasoning towards the solution of problems involving mechanics and thermodynamics.
- Conduct experiments using standard scientific methods, evaluate the resulting data, and construct evidence-based conclusions in a written report.
Course Objectives
- 1. Analyze the statics and dynamics of point masses, extended systems, and fluids subjected to constant forces.
- 2. Apply the concepts of momentum conservation towards the analysis of mechanical systems.
- 3. Apply the concepts of energy conservation towards the analysis of mechanical and thermodynamic systems.
- 4. Relate the mechanics of particles on the microscopic scale to the properties of thermodynamic systems.
- 5. Conduct experiments to acquire and analyze real-world data, with appropriate use of measurements, units, and significant figures.
- 6. Relate experimental data and results to the basic physical concepts of mechanics and thermodynamics.
Lecture Content
Units, Scalars, Vectors Translational Kinematics and Dynamics Newton's Laws Gravitation Work and Energy Momentum Rotational Kinematics and Dynamics Statics Simple Harmonic Motion Mechanical Waves and Sound Fluid Statics and Dynamics Temperature and Heat Kinetic Theory Laws of Thermodynamics Entropy
Lab Content
Laboratory activities cover a range of topics directly related to the lecture portion of the class, with an emphasis on hands-on activities with real-world data collection and analysis, including appropriate use of measurements, units, and significant figures. Representative experiments include investigations of: Measurement and Error Propagation Statistics Free-Fall Acceleration Projective Motion Vectors Newton s Second Law Friction Impulse and Collisions Conservation of Momentum Conservation of Energy Simple Harmonic Motion Standing Waves and Resonance Buoyancy Fluid Dynamics Absolute Zero Calorimetry
Method(s) of Instruction
- Lecture (02)
- DE Live Online Lecture (02S)
- DE Online Lecture (02X)
- Lab (04)
- DE Live Online Lab (04S)
- DE Online Lab (04X)
Instructional Techniques
Lectures with demonstrations as well as in-class activities and discussion engage students in core scientific concepts and problem-solving techniques. Assigned readings and homework reinforce conceptual understandings and improve problem-solving skills. Laboratory activities challenge students to critically examine and apply their scientific knowledge and technical skills in a real-world setting. Written lab reports provide further opportunities to improve analytical and communication skills. Students are encouraged to interact with the instructor and each other through in-class discussions and activities, as well as within lab groups and during instructor office hours.
Reading Assignments
One hour per week as assigned by the instructor from texts, online or library research, and/or instructor handouts
Writing Assignments
One hour per week on written reports summarizing the weekly lab experiments that include appropriate use of scientific and technical vocabulary, as well as significant qualitative and quantitative analysis
Out-of-class Assignments
Four hours per week on assignments and test preparation emphasizing problem-solving and concept application
Demonstration of Critical Thinking
Successful completion of assigned exams and quizzes, homework, in-class discussions and activities, and lab reports
Required Writing, Problem Solving, Skills Demonstration
Students will compose written lab reports summarizing the weekly lab experiments that include appropriate use of scientific and technical vocabulary, as well as significant qualitative and quantitative analysis. Exams, quizzes, and homework will require critical application of problem-solving skills.
Eligible Disciplines
Physics/Astronomy: Master's degree in physics, astronomy, or astrophysics OR bachelor's degree in physics or astronomy AND master's degree in engineering, mathematics, meteorology, or geophysics OR the equivalent. Master's degree required.
Textbooks Resources
1. Required Urone, Paul Peter Roger Hinrichs. College Physics 2e, ed. OpenStax, 2022
Manuals Resources
1. OCC Physics Department. PHYS A120 Laboratory Manual, Orange Coast College , 01-01-2024