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Mechanics
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The branch of physics that deals with forces and the way they produce and change motion is called mechanics. 
 
Kinematics is the mathematical treatment of the motions of bodies without regard to the forces that produce the motion.  In the last Topic, we began our investigation of motion using graphs; here we seek to understand the math of motion.
 
In this topic we cover the variables of 1-D and projectile motion, statics including vector addition and resolution of forces, Newton's Three Laws of Motion, circular motion, gravitation, friction and momentum. 
 
Simply Click on the links below:

Distance vs. Displacement

Here you will discover the similarities and differences between distance and displacement.  MAKE SURE YOU TRY THE PRACTICE PROBLEMS! 

Speed and Velocity

One is a scalar and the other is a vector..do you know which is which?  You must also be able to use the equation to calculate length and time variables.  MAKE SURE YOU TRY THE PRACTICE PROBLEMS!

Acceleration

How does acceleration relate to velocity?  What motion variables can we use to calculate acceleration?  You need to be able to rearrange the equation to solve for length and time variables.  MAKE SURE YOU TRY THE PRACTICE PROBLEMS!

Motion Diagrams

Last Topic we looked at motion graphs; here we view motion on diagrams from ticker-tape and vector drawings.  You need to be able to identify constant velocity and acceleration on these graphs.  MAKE SURE YOU TRY THE PRACTICE PROBLEMS! 

Kinematic Equations

Kinematic Equations are used mathematically to represent motion that has constant acceleration.  These equations are listed on your Regents Reference Tables and you must be able to solve for all varialbes in each of the equations.  In addition, you must be able to decide which equation can be used to solve specific problems.  MAKE SURE YOU TRY THE PRACTICE PROBLEMS!

Free Falling Objects

What makes something a "free-falling" object?  How can we determine how long it takes for an object to strike the ground?  You need to be able to use the kinematic variables of motion to solve for length, time and velocity variables.  MAKE SURE YOU TRY THE PRACTICE PROBLEMS! 

Forces and Newton's Laws

Forces are all around us and play a HUGE role in our lives.  You need to understand how they affect objects and apply Newton's three laws to objects and systems.  MAKE SURE YOU TRY THE PRACTICE PROBLEMS!

Investigating Newton's Laws Website Activity

Vector Addition and Resolution

Do you remember how vectors differ from scalars?  Here we explore how vectors can be added graphically and algebraically to find a resultant.  The equilbrant is what?  You need to know so find out here.  Statics is the branch of physics that deals with equilibrium and balance...you need to be able to resolve a static system and determine the forces acting in varying directions.  MAKE SURE YOU TRY THE PRACTICE PROBLEMS! 

Projectile Motion

Most of the motion that is off the ground is 2-D motion; we call this projectile motion.  Here you will explore the parabolic properties of projectiles and discover how to mathematically create accurate projectiles.  You must be able to break the motion into horizontal and vertical components and solve for length, velocity and time variables.  MAKE SURE TO TRY THE PRACTICE PROBLEMS!

Forces 2-D

Just like projectile motion, forces also act in 2-D; here we explore how to resolve forces systems and determine the affect of multiple forces acting on a body at angles.  You must be able to break the system down into components vectors and solve for a net force.  MAKE SURE TO TRY THE PRACTICE PROBLEMS!

Circular Motion

Circular motion rocks!  Here we explore the properties of motion in a circle and investigate how some of our favorite amusementpark rides are based on these very basic principles of motion.  You must be able to solve for centripetal force and avveleration as well as tangential velocity.  MAKE SURE TO TRY THE PRACTICE PROBLEMS!

Gravity and Universal Gravitation

Gravity is one of the four fundamental forces in nature and know wonder why..without it, we wouldn't be here!  You need to be able to use Newton's Law of Gravitation to compare how gravitational forces affect bodies.  MAKE SURE TO TRY THE PRACTICE PROBLEMS!

Momentum and Impulse

If something is moving at a constant velocity, in the absence of friction, no net force is required to keep it moving.  So what property does the object posess?  If it hits us we will most likely feel it..so what property does it carry?  Moving objects have momentum and a change in momentum, due to a force, is called an impulse.  You will find the equations on your Reference Tables, but you must know what they mean and how to use them...so, read on!  MAKE SURE TO TRY THE PRACTICE PROBLEMS!

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