Textbook Exercises

Solve the following problems.

Chapter 1

• Conceptual Questions: 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 11

• Problems & Exercises: 1 – 8, 16, 17, 20 – 23, 29, 31

Formulas.

Modify this list as you wish to support your learning.

Phy1014-formulas-week1-4

This is what you need to know to solve problems successfully:

• SI units of measurements
• Converting a number to scientific notation
• Converting units and metric system
• Counting significant figures
• Determining number of significant figures in calculations
• Using method of adding percents in calculating uncertainty
• Distance = speed x time (speed is constant)

Solving Problems in Physics

Note: Image by Chudaeva, E. (2022).

• Strategy is the beginning stage of solving a problem.
• The solution stage is when you do the math.
• In physics, we use mathematics as a tool to help us understand nature. So, after you obtain a numerical answer, you should always assess its significance: check units, and check the answer to see whether it is reasonable.

The following general procedures facilitate problem solving in physics and make it more meaningful:

Strategy

1. Examine the situation to determine which physical principles are involved.
2. Make a list of what is given or may be inferred from the problem as stated (identify the knowns).
3. Identify exactly what needs to be determined in the problem (identify the unknowns).

Solution

4. Find an equation or set of equations that can help you solve the problems.
5. Substitute the knowns along with their units into the appropriate equation, and obtained numerical solutions complete with units.

Assessing significance

6. Check units.
7. Check the answer to see if it is reasonable.