Active course · 2026-2

Basic Physics I

An introductory course in Newtonian mechanics focused on the study of motion, forces, and conservation laws.

Code
0302270
Credits
4
Modality
In person
Semester
2026-2

01

Learning purpose

Develop a solid understanding of the fundamental laws of Newtonian mechanics and strengthen the ability to analyse and solve physics problems through elementary calculus, vector geometry, and first-principles reasoning.

96contact hours
96independent-study hours
192total hours

02

Learning outcomes

  1. 01

    Understand Newton's three laws and the law of universal gravitation.

  2. 02

    Apply Newton's second law correctly.

  3. 03

    Formulate and solve equations of motion.

  4. 04

    Analyse systems of particles.

  5. 05

    Understand the conservation laws for energy and momentum.

  6. 06

    Apply conservation laws in mechanics problems.

03

Course units

The course is organized into seven units covering the foundations of Newtonian mechanics.

01

Vectors and kinematics

Foundations of measurement, vector algebra, and descriptions of motion in one, two, and three dimensions.

Chapters 1, 2 and 3
02

Newton's laws

Study of mechanical interactions and of the laws relating force, mass, and motion.

Chapter 4
03

Forces and equations of motion

Application of Newton's laws to particles in equilibrium and motion.

Chapter 5
04

Work and energy

Energy formulation of mechanics and analysis of conservative and non-conservative forces.

Chapters 6 and 7
05

Linear momentum and systems of particles

Description of systems of particles through linear momentum, impulse, and centre of mass.

Chapter 8
06

Rotation and angular momentum

Kinematics and dynamics of rotating rigid bodies.

Chapters 9 and 10
07

Gravitation and periodic motion

Applications of Newtonian mechanics to gravitational and oscillatory systems.

Chapters 13 and 14

04

Methodology

  • Argument-based presentation of fundamental concepts.

  • Problem solving and discussion.

  • Workshop work and feedback.

  • Use of videos, simulations, and demonstrations when they contribute to physical analysis.

  • Independent study supported by the main textbook and course materials.

05

Assessment

The components add up to 100% of the course grade.

First examination

Chapters 1, 2 and 3

20 %

Second examination

Chapters 4, 5 and 6

20 %

Third examination

Chapters 7, 8 and 9

20 %

Fourth examination

Chapters 10, 13 and 14

20 %

Workshop

Activities and problem solving

20 %

06

Bibliography

Main and supplementary materials established for the course.

S–Z

Física universitaria, volumen 1

Sears y Zemansky; Young y Freedman

13.ª edición
Main textbook
K–K

An Introduction to Mechanics

Kleppner y Kolenkow

Supplementary text
H–R–W

Fundamentos de física

Halliday, Resnick y Walker

Supplementary text
A–F

Física, volumen I

Marcelo Alonso y Edward J. Finn

Supplementary text