Introduction
This textbook is designed for college students pursuing engineering degrees, offering a rigorous yet accessible introduction to the foundational principles of physics and their practical applications. Rooted in both theoretical insight, mathematical rigor and real-world relevance, the material equips you, the student, with an analytical toolkit essential for future coursework in engineering disciplines such as Statics, Dynamics, and beyond.
Learning Structure and Approach
Each chapter introduces core physical concepts along with the mathematical frameworks necessary for their understanding.
These theoretical discussions are followed by:
- Solved Examples: Carefully modeled to demonstrate effective problem-solving strategies.
- Practice Questions: Designed to reinforce comprehension and encourage hands-on learning.
- Challenge Questions: Concluding each chapter, these open-ended problems invite students to think critically and explore advanced or real-world applications of the topics.
Each chapter builds upon the previous one, supporting a progressive learning curve to help you develop both intuitive insight and analytical precision. The ultimate goal is to foster confident, capable problem-solvers ready for the challenges of modern engineering.
Content Overview
Below is an overview of the major topics covered and the associated parts/chapters found in this text.
Units and Measurement Systems
The book begins with a discussion on units and measurement systems, emphasizing dimensional consistency and unit conversion, which are foundational to all of physics.
Vectors and Vector Components
Next, students are introduced to vector quantities (displacement, velocity, acceleration, force) and learn techniques for finding components of a vector and adding vectors, essential for solving physical problems.
Kinematics
This section focuses on the descriptive aspects of motion—displacement, velocity, acceleration—and introduces free fall as a key example of accelerated motion.
Forces and Newton’s Laws
Real-world applications are emphasized through the use of free-body diagrams, exploring forces such as friction, tension, normal force, and weight. Concepts of equilibrium and non-equilibrium are introduced, leading to Newton’s Second Law and the calculation of net force.
- Part 6: Introduction to Forces; Newton’s Laws
- Part 7: Force of Friction and Normal Force; Free Body Diagrams
- Part 8: Tension and Compression
Torque and Rotational Equilibrium
Here, students learn how a force’s magnitude, direction, and point of application affect rotational systems. The concept of net torque is explored in both equilibrium and non-equilibrium scenarios.
Work, Energy, and Power
These interrelated concepts provide students with an energy-based lens to analyze physical systems, highlighting conservation laws and energy transfer mechanisms.
Circular Motion
Students adapt their understanding of linear motion to rotational systems, exploring principles that govern phenomena from orbiting planets to mechanical devices.
Gears and Rotational Systems
The final chapter bridges theory and engineering by examining gears found in technology and industry.
