Introductory Mechanics and Relativity
PHYSICS 15A
Subject & Catalog Number
Course Information
Description
Physics 15a is an introduction to the topics of Newtonian mechanics and special relativity, but it is also an introduction to what it means to be a physicist—formulating theoretical models to describe the natural world and testing those models for consistency with data. Topics include: vectors; kinematics in three dimensions; Newton's laws; force, work, power; conservative forces, potential energy; momentum, collisions; rotational motion, angular momentum, torque; static equilibrium, simple harmonic motion, damped and driven oscillations; gravitation; fictitious forces; fluids; special relativity; experimental methods and tools including: basic programming, experimental design and data acquisition, model testing and error analysis; scientific communication.
Course Notes
Principles of Scientific Inquiry (PSI) is the laboratory component of Physics 15a. Topics include experimental design, model testing, error analysis, basic programming, and oral presentations. PSI will meet weekly throughout the semester.
Class Notes
Physics 15a/16 has a lab component. You must join the lab on this Canvas site: https://self-enroll.tlt.harvard.edu/7cffd320-de53-43f6-a047-082f969b6d3a
Available lab times are:
T 3-5
T 6-8
W 12:45-2:45
R 3-5
R 6-8
F 9:45-11:45
F 12:45-2:45
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
