Mechanics is the study of the interactions between physical bodies and their consequent motion.
In this topic, we will:
- Define the quantities used to describe motion (displacement, velocity, acceleration).
- Derive a set of equations that give the relationship between the displacement, velocity, acceleration and time when the acceleration is constant.
- Solve problems involving constant acceleration in 1 and 2-dimensions.
- Understand the effects of forces.
- Relate unbalanced forces to motion.
- Consider energy and the capabilities that this gives to bodies.
- Define power and efficiency.
- Learn about types of collision in terms of conservation of momentum.
Force vs displacement graphs
A force vs displacement graph is a useful tool for measuring the work done when the force is not constant.
Work done
When asked the question, "is work done", you should always think of the definition of work and use it in your answer. Work is done if a force moves in the direction of the line of action of the force.
Inertia, momentum and impulse
Heavy bodies require a large force to get then moving and a large force to make them stop. We say the body has a larg inertia.
Work and energy
To predict the outcome of the collision between two ball we need more than just the conservation of momentum, we neeed to consider energy as well.
Potential energy
It might be better to call potential energy positional energy since it is the energy a body has due to its position.
Projectile motion
Not very nice to shoot monkeys but it makes a good point about the vertical component of projectile motion so it´s for a good cause. Best to think of projectile motion as two problems in one, constant velocity horizontally and constant acceleration ver