PHYS 241 - Statics

3 Credits: (3 lecture)

Course Description
This engineering course uses vector and scalar analysis to study the properties of forces and movement. Free-body diagrams and Newton’s 1st and 3rd Laws will be used to solve various engineering problems. Problem types will include force reactions on rigid bodies, structural analysis, and friction. Centroid concepts and moments of inertia will be emphasized. 

Note Fall semester only.

Prerequisite PHYS 221 and MATH 222 or concurrent registration.

A. Use vector analysis, vector algebra, or scalar methods.

B. Utilize vector analysis to study the properties of forces and movement.

C. Employ the concepts of a “free-body diagram.”

D. Utilize Newton’s 1st and 3rd Laws particularly the special case of the 1st law when a = 0; the static situation.

E. Apply the above concepts and laws to solve various engineering problems.

F. Analyze situations involving particular problem types including forces reactions on rigid bodies, simple structural analysis, and friction.

G. Apply the concepts of centroid and moments of inertia.

Content
A. Introduction.

B. Force Systems.

C. Equilibrium.

D. Structures.

E. Friction.

F. Distributed Forces.

G. Center of Gravity and Centroids.

H. Area of Moment Inertia.

I. Mass Moment of Inertia.

Student Evaluation
The objectives will be evaluated as follows:  A, B, C, D, E, F, and G will be evaluated using some combination of homework, examinations, and a final examination.