Mechanics: Theory, Computation, and Experiment
PHYSCI 12A
Subject & Catalog Number
Course Information
Description
This is the first term of a two-semester introductory course in physics. The focus is on quantitative scientific reasoning, with the first term exploring Newtonian mechanics. Topics include kinematics, linear and rotational motion, forces, energy, momentum, collisions, gravitation, oscillations, and waves, with a brief introduction to statistical physics. Examples are drawn from across the physical sciences and engineering.
Students will gain competence in both analytic (pencil and paper) and computational tools (programming in Python) used by scientists to model simple physical systems and analyze experimental data, including problem solving, basic programming, measurement of physical quantities, and chi squared model testing and curve fitting.
The course is aimed at first year students who have an interest in pursuing a concentration in the sciences or engineering. The course includes lecture, laboratory, and discussion components.
Class Notes
This course includes required lab sections. Their times are not shown in Course Search; add the course to your Crimson Cart to view them.
Recommended Prep
Math 1a OR Math Ma and Mb prerequisites, and M1b corequisite.
Available for Harvard Cross Registration
NOTE: This course requires additional sections; you will be prompted to choose secondary components during the Add to Cart process
