Mechanics: Motion, Forces, Energy and Gravity, from Particles to Planets

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/mechanics-particles-planets

Introduction

**Course Review and Recommendation: Mechanics: Motion, Forces, Energy and Gravity, from Particles to Planets** In today’s world, understanding the fundamental principles of physics is more important than ever. Coursera offers a gem of a course titled *Mechanics: Motion, Forces, Energy and Gravity, from Particles to Planets*, which delves deeply into the core concepts of mechanics that govern the dynamics of not only objects on Earth but also celestial bodies in the universe. ### Overview This on-demand course is suited for senior high school students, beginners at the university level, and anyone who possesses a keen curiosity about the fundamental elements of physics. It meticulously explores the intricate relationships between motion, forces, energy, and gravity. The instructor adeptly bridges theoretical concepts with tangible applications, helping learners appreciate the mechanics that dictate everything from a falling apple to the orbits of planets. ### Course Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Introduction and Basic Tools** The course kicks off with an essential introduction to the basic tools and mathematical concepts that students will need throughout the semester. This foundation sets the stage for tackling the more complex topics that follow. 2. **Velocity and Acceleration** In this section, students are introduced to the concepts of kinematics. The materials guide learners through the quantitative aspects of motion, focusing on motion in a straight line. This grounding is crucial for all future lessons, as understanding how objects move is the bedrock of mechanics. 3. **Motion in Two Dimensions** Expanding on the previous week’s concepts, this section introduces the complexities of two-dimensional motion, including projectiles and circular motion. This dual perspective is key in grasping how objects behave in more realistic scenarios compared to linear motion alone. 4. **Newton's Laws of Motion** Perhaps one of the most critical segments of the course, this part explores Newton's three laws of motion in depth. This knowledge is not only essential for understanding basic motion but is also foundational for various engineering principles, particularly in statics. 5. **Weight, Friction, and Spring Forces** Here, students learn to differentiate between weight and mass while diving into forces of friction and elastic deformations through Hooke's Law. Problems posed in this section further solidify understanding of these forces and their application. 6. **Work, Energy, and Power** This section addresses concepts of work and energy—integral parts of any physics curriculum. The course outlines the work-energy theorem and introduces potential and kinetic energy, while also connecting these concepts to everyday experiences through relatable examples. 7. **Momentum and Collisions** Engaging and action-packed, this section introduces momentum and its application in analyzing elastic and inelastic collisions. Through hands-on examples and scenarios, students will discover the physics behind collisions, enhancing understanding through practical demonstrations. 8. **Gravity** The course concludes with an exploration of gravity, addressing its fundamental role in the workings of the universe. Discussions encompass topics like escape velocity, orbits, and even black holes, striking a balance between theoretical knowledge and real-world implications. ### Final Thoughts *Mechanics: Motion, Forces, Energy and Gravity, from Particles to Planets* stands out for its comprehensive approach to teaching mechanics. The structured progression from basic concepts to more complex theories makes it accessible even for those without a robust background in physics. The use of practical examples helps to illuminate tricky concepts, and the on-demand nature of the course allows for flexible learning. For anyone looking to build a strong foundational understanding of physics while enjoying the journey of exploration, I wholeheartedly recommend this course. Whether you aim to further your studies in engineering or simply wish to satisfy your curiosity about the mechanics of the universe, this course is an excellent choice that will surely enrich your knowledge and skills in physics.

Syllabus

Introduction and Basic Tools

This introductory section covers some basic tools you will need to solve some of the physics problems we will encounter later.

Here we introduce kinematics, in which we describe and quantify movement of objects through space over time. Motion is so important to mechanics (and most of physics) that we'll spend a few weeks establishing the tools and techniques we'll need. We'll leave explaining motion to the later weeks, starting with Newton's laws in week 4. Here we study the simplest case: motion in a straight line.

Here we look at kinematics in two-dimensions – specifically, projectiles and objects in circular motion.

After describing and quantifying motion (weeks 2 and 3), we now start explaining it with Newton's three laws of motion. Knowledge of Newton's laws and the ability to apply them to various situations will allow us to explain much of the motion we observe in the world around us. They are also very important for analysing things (like bridges) that don't move much (a subject called Statics that's important in some Engineering programs). Because Newton's laws are so important, week 4 has five lessons, as well as slightly longer quizzes than the previous chapters. 

We return to the difference between weight and mass. We introduce Hooke's law for elastic deformations. We consider forces between objects in contact and (for convenience) resolve them into their normal and frictional components – and as usual give you some problems to solve.

In week 6 we explore work and energy, then power – the rate of doing work. We'll use work and Newton's second law to derive the quantity called kinetic energy. Looking at where work comes from, we'll distinguish two sorts of force – conservative and non-conservative. That will allow us to introduce potential energy and mechanical energy. Power is the rate of doing work. We'll spend some time relating these quantities and their units to your everyday experience, relating Joules to kilowatt hours (the unit used by electricity companies) and kilowatts to horsepower and to human power.

It’s time for some smashing fun! Once we've defined momentum we'll use momentum to analyse elastic and inelastic collisions. Stand by for hammers, skateboards, car crashes and a bed of nails…

For as long as history – and probably much longer – people have stared at the planets and stars and wondered. Why do they shine? What keeps them moving? Why don't they fall down? So next is gravity – and how it runs the solar system, the galaxy and the universe. Escape speed, orbits, satellite manoeuvring, black holes: yes, all of the these.