PHYS 1501 - Fundamentals of Physics 1
Fall 2026 Syllabus, Section 01, CRN 44023,
Credit hours: 4
Course Meeting Times
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Instructor
Cynthia Smotzer
Email: casmotzer@ysu.edu
Course Description
1501. Fundamentals of Physics 1. Topics include kinematics, forces, energy, momentum, rotational kinematics, torque, angular momentum, simple harmonic motion, and mechanical waves. Not recommended for mathematics, chemistry, physics, or engineering majors. Prereq.: C or better in both MATH 1510 and MATH 1511 or C or better in both MATH 1510C and MATH 1511C or C or better in MATH 1513 or at least level 70 on the Mathematics Placement Test. 4 s.h.
Course Readings
| Group | Title | Author | ISBN |
|---|---|---|---|
| Required | Physics Classroom |
The course readings are subject to change in the event of extenuating circumstances, research developments, current events, and/or to ensure better learning.
Assignments/Assessments
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Schedule of Topics and Assignments
| Week of | Reading(s) | Proposed Topic | Due/To Prepare for Class |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8/24 | Chapter 1: Fundamentals | Units and Measurement Graphing |
|
| 8/31 | Chapter 2: 1D kinematics | ||
| 9/7 | Chapter 2 | ||
| 9/14 | Chapter 3: Newton's Laws | ||
| 9/21 | Chapter 4: Vectors and Projectiles | ||
| 9/28 | Chapter 5: Forces in 2D | ||
| 10/5 | Chapter 5 | ||
| 10/12 | Chapter 6: Momentum, Collisions and Explosions | ||
| 10/19 | Chapter 7: Work and Energy | ||
| 10/26 | Chapter 8: Circular and Satellite Motion | ||
| 11/2 | Chapter 9: Rotation and Balance | ||
| 11/9 | Chapter 9 | ||
| 11/16 | Chapter 10: Fluids | ||
| 11/23 | Chapter 16: Vibrations and Waves | ||
| 11/30 | Chapter 17: Sound Waves | ||
| 12/7 | Finals Week |
The course schedule, policies, procedures, and assignments in this course are subject to change in the event of extenuating circumstances, by mutual agreement, and/or to ensure better learning.