Topic 1 – Units, Trigonometry, and Vectors

Goal: Students will examine the key components of measurement, SI units, dimensional analysis, estimation, significant figures, trigonometry, vectors and general problem solving.

Objectives:

  • Identify the SI units of length, mass and time. Gain a “number sense” for magnitudes of different powers of 10.

  • Qualitatively summarize the components and levels of structure of matter.

  • State the definition of a dimension, and use dimensional analysis to both derive relationships and check algebraic expressions.

  • Apply the rules for writing significant figures to properly record the uncertainty of measured numbers. Correctly add, subtract, multiply, and divide significant figures.

  • Use appropriate conversion factors to perform unit conversions.

  • Make order-of-magnitude estimations to determine reasonable expected values for solutions.

  • Identify the location of points using either the Cartesian system or the polar coordinate system.

  • Define the basic trigonometric functions for right triangles and be able to solve associated problems.

  • Define vector and scalar quantities, citing examples. Construct a resultant vector by applying the rules of vector addition, subtraction, and multiplication by a scalar.

  • Find vector components using trigonometry. Determine a resultant algebraically from components of vectors.

  • Outline a systematic problem-solving strategy that can be applied to solve general physics problems.

Assignments:

  1. Read and take notes, sections 1.1 – 1.4; Chap. 1 Problems 1, 6

  2. Read and take sections 1.5 – 1.7; Problems 13, 16, 21, 23, 25, 26

  3. Read and take sections 1.8 – 1.9; Problems 34, 39

  4. Read and take notes 1.10 – 1.11; Problems 49, 52, 53

  5. Complete worksheet AP1M01ws4

  6. Problems 54, 61

  7. Problems 56, 62, 70, 71

  8. Review for Topic 1 test

  9. Topic 1 test