PHYS 121: Physics 1 for Scientists

Learn how to calculate the kinetic energy of a Saturn 5 rocket with an Apollo spacecraft attached using physics principles and formulas. Understand the importance of unit conversion and the work-energy theorem as you plug values into the KE = 1/2 mv² formula. Discover that the kinetic energy for this rocket and spacecraft combo is an astonishing 1.82 x 10¹³ Joules.

Join us as we explore the dynamic world of gymnastics and the forces at play. In this video, we analyze a gymnast's routine on the rings, calculating the forces involved. Learn how the gymnast's body interacts with the rings and the floor, and discover how changes in arm angles affect the forces. Dive into the physics of human movement and gymnastics.

Explore the physics of a light-rail commuter train's motion. Understand how to calculate times for acceleration and deceleration using the equations of motion. Dive into the concept of emergency deceleration and its implications.

Explore the physics behind an athlete's rope climb. Understand the relationship between power, force, and time, and how to calculate the minimum power output an athlete exerts. Witness the interplay of physics principles in evaluating athletic prowess.

Delve into Newton's third law of motion and explore how the choice of the 'system of interest' influences whether force pairs cancel each other out.