46 Outcome 1: Linear Mechanics
The information in this outcome is provided from the open source textbook: Gozuacik, Pattison, Tabor: “Physics.” March 26, 2020. Openstax.org. Accessed on “https://openstax.org/details/books/physics” on August 9, 2021. This material is used under the Creative Commons Attribution License V4.0.
Outcome/Competency: You will be able to describe and predict outcomes of systems using Newton’s Laws.
Rationale:
Why is it important for you to learn this skill?
Our understanding of the way things move, and how force interacts with matter, stems from three observations recorded by Isaac Newton. Understanding Newton’s Laws lets us be able to predict what will happen if a force is applied. Whether you drop a tool, or lift a transformer with a sling, you will be able to predict the nature of the motion and force required.
Objectives:
To be competent in this area, the individual must be able to:
- Apply basic terms and calculations used in the study of Newton’s laws
Learning Goals
- Define terms and perform calculations related to Newton’s laws
- Solve problems using analytical vector methods.
Introduction:
In this section you will explore the use of linear mechanics and Newton’s Laws. You will learn how to calculate and define terms related to linear motion, the applications of kinematic formulations, and how to problem solve using graphics, trigonometry, and vectors. You will be presented with content, participate in group discussions go through examples and be given opportunities to practice throughout. There will be a test at the end of each topic.
Mechanics is a branch of physics that deals with forces and the effect of forces on objects. There are two branches of mechanics: statics and dynamics. Statics deals with forces on objects that aren’t moving: all forces are in balance. Dynamics deals with effects of force on objects that are in motion. We will learn about statics in this course because it applies directly to the power line trade.
Topic 1: Newton’s Laws (3h)
Figure 1 Newton’s laws of motion describe the motion of the dolphin’s path. (Credit: Jin Jang)
Isaac Newton (1642–1727) was a natural philosopher; a great thinker who combined science and philosophy to try to explain the workings of nature on Earth and in the universe. His laws of motion were just one part of the monumental work that has made him legendary. The development of Newton’s laws marks the transition from the Renaissance period of history to the modern era. This transition was characterized by a revolutionary change in the way people thought about the physical universe. Drawing upon earlier work by scientists Galileo Galilei and Johannes Kepler, Newton’s laws of motion allowed motion on Earth and in space to be predicted mathematically. In this chapter you will learn about force as well as Newton’s first, second, and third laws of motion.
Introduction to Newton’s Laws
By the end of this section, you will be able to do the following:
- Differentiate betw