Mechanics: Motion, Forces, Energy and Gravity, from Particles to Planets Course Syllabus
Full curriculum breakdown — modules, lessons, estimated time, and outcomes.
Overview: This course offers a comprehensive introduction to classical mechanics, covering motion, forces, energy, and gravity—from everyday objects to celestial bodies. Designed for beginners with basic math skills, it spans five modules over approximately 5 weeks, with 3–5 hours of study per week. Through lectures, problem-solving exercises, and real-world applications, learners will build a strong foundation in Newtonian physics. Lifetime access ensures flexible, self-paced learning, culminating in a certificate of completion.
Module 1: Introduction to Forces and Motion
Estimated time: 4 hours
- Newton’s Laws of Motion
- Motion in one dimension
- Acceleration and velocity
- Solving motion problems using graphs and equations
Module 2: Energy and Work
Estimated time: 4 hours
- Kinetic and potential energy
- Work-energy theorem
- Conservative and non-conservative forces
- Calculating work and energy transformations
Module 3: Momentum and Collisions
Estimated time: 4 hours
- Linear momentum and impulse
- Conservation of momentum
- Elastic and inelastic collisions
- Real-world collision scenarios and simulations
Module 4: Circular Motion and Gravity
Estimated time: 4 hours
- Centripetal force and acceleration
- Orbital motion
- Newton’s law of universal gravitation
- Analysis of satellite and planetary motion
Module 5: Rotational Motion and Torque
Estimated time: 4 hours
- Rotational kinematics
- Torque and angular acceleration
- Angular momentum
- Problem-solving in rotational systems
Prerequisites
- Basic algebra and trigonometry
- Familiarity with high school-level physics concepts
- Working knowledge of mathematical functions and graphing
What You'll Be Able to Do After
- Understand and apply Newton’s laws to physical systems
- Analyze motion and forces in both terrestrial and astronomical contexts
- Solve problems involving energy, work, and conservation laws
- Interpret and predict outcomes of collisions and rotational motion
- Apply mechanics principles to real-world and engineering challenges