Vector and Mathematical Analysis for Mechanics

PHYSICS 40: Vector and Mathematical Analysis for MechanicsPhysics 40 teaches fundamental math and physics concepts that are important for success in Physics 41+ and engineering statics/dynamics. This class has a strong emphasis on physics problem-solving schema and vector and mathematical analysis for geometry, forces, and motion. Students master both geometric and algebraic representations of vectors, resolving vectors into components, vector addition/subtraction, dot-products, cross-products, and derivatives. Through systematic practice, students translate between various representations, e.g. sketches, descriptions of a physical system, equations, graphs, and real systems (from various physics and engineering disciplines). Vector equations are used to generate scalar equations, which are then solved. Physics 40 is an on-ramp to Physics 41 for students with little or no high school physics. The minimum corequisite is Math 19 (or equivalent). A permission number is required to enroll. Contact mitiguy@stanford.edu.