Introductory Physics I Syllabus for 2011-2012
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Course

PHYS-1305-002 Introductory Physics I

Prerequisites

MATH 0303-minimum grade of C, an Accuplacer score of 75, a THEA score of 270 or an equivalent score on a state-approved test and RDNG 0331-minimum grade of C or a score on a state-approved test indicating college-level reading skills

Course Description

Introduction to physics for students who have limited backgrounds in science and mathematics. Topics include mechanics, properties of matter, heat and thermodynamics.

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Department Expectations

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Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

\  Conceptual Physics Fundamentals by Paul G. Hewitt

Supplies

\ Textbook, notebook, scientific calculator

\ Access to the internet is necessary to complete online homework assignments.

Student Performance

\ Discuss the basic principles of physics and define important scientific terms clearly such as:

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1. \ Know the differences between constant velocity and uniform acceleration in one dimension.
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2. \ Understand the net force concept and how motion is determined by net force.
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3. \ Discuss Newton's laws of motion.
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4. \ Know the difference between mass and weight.
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5. \ Apply force and motion concepts to projectile motion.
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6. \ Understand momentum, impulse, and energy  in collisions.
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7. \ Explain conservation of momentum and energy.
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8. \ Know the difference between heat and temperature.
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9. \ State the laws of thermodynamics.
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10. \ Differentiate between types of waves.
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11. \ Explain wave motion.
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\ Discuss how the basic principles of physics  (forces, momentum, energy, and waves) apply to real-life situations such as:

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1. \ Races (both human, animal, and vehicular)
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2. \ Safety features in vehicles
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3. \ Thrill rides
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4. \ Sports
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5. \ Energy usage in buildings
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6. \ Air conditioning and heating
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7. \ Sonar applications in animals and the military.
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8. \ Radar applications
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9. \ Dead spots for radios
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10. \ Lag time between seeing lightning and hearing thunder.
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\ Use elementary math to solve problems in physics such as:

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1. \ Use basic kinematics equations to solve one-dimensional motion problems.
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2. \ Calculate mass and weight.
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3. \ Calculate the net force acting on an object.
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4. \ Calculate individual forces on an object when the net force is known.
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5. \ Use force laws and kinematics to calculate projectile ranges.
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6. \ Calculate changes in momentum, impulse, and energy.
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7. \ Convert temperatures between scales (Kelvin, Celsius, Fahrenheit).
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8. \ Calculate the amount of heat transferred into/out of a simple system.
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9. \ Determine frequency, period, wavelength, and velocity of waves.
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10. \ Calculate distances using sonar and radar concepts.
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Students Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

Cell phones are not to out during class unless okayed by the instructor. Any use of a cell phone or other device during a test or quiz will result in immediate forfeiture of the quiz/exam and a zero grade.

During exams, you are expected to be on time. Once the first test has been turned in, no tests will be handed out to anyone late for class.

Grading Criteria

The course grade will be composed of the following components:

Homework                                      10%
4 Exams (drop Lowest)                    65%
Final Exam                                     25%

The overall course grade will be according to the following percentages:

A   90 - 100 %
B   80 - 89.99 %
C  70 - 79.99 %
D  60 - 69.99 %
F - Below 60 %

There will be no extra credit assignments. If you have a question about a grade, you have two weeks from the date that the grade is posted to ask for a review. After that two weeks the grade will be permanent.

Attendance

Class attendance is mandatory with attendance monitored by class roll. There will be no makeups for homework, missed quizzes or tests unless prior arrangements have been made.

Calendar

Additional Information

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