MP110

MECHANICS 1 & SPECIAL RELATIVITY

Credits
7.5
Year
1
Semester
1
Department
PHYSICS

Overview

Dimensions and units. Linear kinematics and dynamics of a particle and of a system of particles. Principles of momentum and energy. Particle dynamics in more than one dimension. Vector methods. Motion in a circle, motion under constant gravity. Projectile motion. Conservative and Non-conservative forces. Work and potential energy. Motion under a central force. Introduction to special relativity: Postulates of special relativity, Lorentz transformations, spacetime, time dilati...

Learning Outcomes

  • Apply the concepts of velocity and acceleration to solving problems in kinetics
  • Carry out basic vector algebra operations including dot and cross products
  • Make appropriate use of vectors in the description of physical quantities
  • Calculate the properties of particles interacting via conservative and non-conservative forces
  • Formulate and solve problems involving conservative forces and energy conservation
  • Describe the basic concepts of special relativity and apply them to solving problems involving time dilation and space contraction