Physics tries to explain how everything works. All of our technology and all of the comforts and conveniences of modern life come about because of our understanding of how the universe works. In order to grasp these concepts, we build mathematical models. A strong background in algebra is necessary and we use a good bit of right-triangle trigonometry as well. Additionally, two of the courses, PHY 221 and 222, require the use of calculus. 

Physics Classes at MTC - The following classes are offered at MTC every semester:

• PHY 201 - College Physics I - an algebra-based first semester physics course. Topics include kinematics (the study of motion), dynamics (the study of how forces accelerate objects), work, energy, momentum and the conservation of energy and momentum, circular motion, statics and fluid dynamics.  This is a transferable 4 credit-hour lab science class, offered both as a traditional lecture/lab and in an hybrid format. 

• PHY 202 - College Physics II - an algebra-based second semester physics course. Topics include wave motion, heat and thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, optics and waves/oscillation. A 4 credit hour class with a lab, the course is offered as a traditional lecture/lab.

• PHY 221 - University Physics I - a calculus-based first semester physics course. Topics include kinematics - the study of motion, dynamics - the study of forces as they accelerate objects, work and energy, momentum and the conservation of energy and momentum, circular motion, statics and fluid dynamics. A 4 credit hour class with a lab, the course is offered both as a traditional lecture/lab and in an hybrid format.

• PHY 222 - University Physics II - This course is a continuation of calculus based treatment of the following topics: thermodynamics, kinetic theory of gases, electricity and magnetism, including electrostatics, dielectrics, electric circuits, magnetic fields, induction phenomena, optics and waves/oscillation. A 4 credit hour class with a lab, the course is offered both as a traditional lecture/lab and in an hybrid format.

Two Versions of Physics - As you see, there are two versions or levels of Physics here at Midlands Tech. 

• Both cover the same topics

• Both transfer to 4 year universities as lab sciences

• Both require good algebra and trigonometry skills and good reasoning ability

PHY 201/202 - College Physics: Algebra-based, slightly less rigorous, slightly less theory, sufficient for 2-year engineering majors, sufficient for all MTC programs, not sufficient for 4-year engineering or science majors

PHY 221/222 - University Physics: Calculus-based, slightly more rigorous, slightly more theory, required for 4-year engineering majors, generally equired for 4-year science majors, should have already taken calculus class

If you take PHY 201 and then decide to change to a 4-year engineering or science major, you will probably have to take Physics over and get the Calc version. The PHY 221 will check you off for anything you ever want to do and is only a little more work and a few extra ideas.

Textbook/Labbook Info - The textbook we use at MTC is a free download from OpenStax. They update these periodically, but you can always do a websearch for "OpenStax Physics" and find the current version online at https://openstax.org/subjects/science

PHY 201 uses College Physics

PHY 202 uses College Physics

PHY 221 uses University Physics Vol 1

PHY 222 uses University Physics Vol 1   &  Vol 2  &  Vol 3