Kelley D. Sullivan

Kelley D. Sullivan

Assistant Professor, Department of Physics
Faculty, School of Humanities and Sciences

Physics 117: Principles of Physics I - Mechanics

Physics 117 will be your introduction (or re-introduction) to mechanics: the study of the motion of objects.  We will learn about kinematics, forces, energy, and momentum.  We'll be reviewing these concepts while also learning how to write proper solutions, to solve problems, and to think critically and analytically.

The course goals are:
· To acquaint students with calculus-based Newtonian Mechanics,
· To help students understand the difference between an exercise and a problem,
· To help students become better problem solvers,
· To introduce students to estimating to obtain meaningful results,
· To introduce students to methods of effectively communicating scientific information.

For students currently enrolled in the course, visit our site on Sakai for more information.

 

** Important information regarding book options: ** (Updated 07/31/12)

The book we will use is Physics for Scientists and Engineers, 3rd edition by Randall Knight.  You must also purchase Mastering Physics (an online component of the book), which comes included with the book.  The book comes in several versions:

1.   Hardbound version, Ch. 1-36.  
Includes Mastering Physics and a workbook, ISBN: 9780321844361. 
 
This is recommended for physics majors and minors. We will use this book in Principles of Physics I, II, and III (PHYS 11700, 11800, 21700).
 
2.   Softbound version, option 1:
Vol. 1, Ch. 1-15.  Includes Mastering Physics and a workbook, ISBN: 9780321844385;      AND
Vol. 4, Ch. 25-36. ISBN: 9780321753168. 
 
This is recommended for chemistry, biology, biochemistry, and computer science majors.  Vol 1. is for Principles of Physics I (PHYS 11700), Vol. 4 is for Principles of Physics II (PHYS 11800).  The two softbound books are slightly less expensive than the hardbound version.  Mastering Physics is good for two semesters, so you only need to buy it when you buy Vol. 1.  Physics students who go this route will later have to purchase Vol. 2 and 3 for Principles of Physics III (PHYS 21700).
 
3.   Softbound version, option 2:
Vol 1, Ch. 1-15. Includes Mastering Physics and a workbook. ISBN: 9780321844385. 
 
This is recommended for environmental science majors, and is for Principles of Physics I (PHYS 11700) only.
 
4.   No book at all! Register (and pay) for Mastering Physics, and use the online book.

 
Clickers will also be used daily in class and are required.  They are available only through the IC bookstore for $50.  There is a $15 rebate available at rebates.turningtechnolgies.com, code RiC7.

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