Engineering Dynamics

Newton's Laws, Vectors, and Reference Frames

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Session Overview

In week 1, we introduce Newton’s three laws of motion. We use them to write an equation of motion. Equations of motion require the evaluation of displacements, velocities, and accelerations. The study of motion is called kinematics. In this course, we use vectors to describe the motion of rigid bodies. The equations for vector displacements, velocities, and accelerations are developed in the first week. Billiards is a game that requires a familiarity with Newton’s laws. Image courtesy of fictures on Flickr.

Assignments

Problems and Concept Questions

Each problem set has concept questions paired with most problems. Answers to the concept questions are handed in before the overall problem set is due. You should therefore answer the concept questions in each problem set while watching the video lectures for the week. Then, use the Concept Question Answer Key (below in the Check Yourself section) to check your work before continuing to work on the problem set.

Please note that if your answer to the concept question is incorrect, it is likely that you may start down an unproductive pathway to a solution. Try to fully understand the answer to the concept question before you begin the regular problem.

• Problem Set 1: Problems and Concept Questions (PDF)

Handouts

• Kinematics (PDF)

Suggested Reading

• [Hibbeler] sections 12.1-12.6, 13.1-13.6, 16.1-16.6, 16.8.

Videos

Lecture Videos

• Watch Lecture 1: History of Dynamics; Motion in Moving Reference Frames

  • Video Chapters
    • Modeling in dynamics
    • History of the study of dynamics
    • An example deriving equations of motion using Newton’s laws
    • Introduction to kinematics using reference frames and vectors
    • Moving frames: translation and rotation

• Watch Notation Systems, a supplementary video which describes the two notation systems used in this course and how they interrelate.

• Watch Lecture 2: Newton’s Laws and Describing the Kinematics of Particles

  • Video Chapters
    • Purpose of concept questions
    • Kinematics: describing the motion of particles and rigid bodies
    • A review of Newton’s three laws of motion
    • The importance of inertial reference frames
    • Newton’s 3rd Law action and reaction forces
    • The definition of center of mass
    • The definition of center of rod

Check Yourself

Concept Question Answer Key and Problem Set Solutions

The solutions are presented in two files, one with the answers to the concept questions, and one with solutions and in-depth explanations for the problems. Work the problems on your own and check your answers when you’re done.

• Problem Set 1: Concept Question Answer Key (PDF)
• Problem Set 1: Problem Solutions with Explanations (PDF - 1.1MB)

Looking for something specific in this course? The Resource Index compiles links to most course resources in a single page.

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