Physics lesson 1 - A Basic Introduction to Physics

Basic intro to physics

1. Physics

2. What is it? Everything in the universe has an effect on every other thing. Physicists study those effects. Physics is a science that relates to all other sciences. Everything on Earth, everything in our solar system, everything in our galaxy, and everything in the Universe moves and interacts. Forces play a big part in that. Physics studies forces and interactions.

3. Mechanics and motion Everything in the universe moves. Don't forget that even if you appear to be standing still, the Earth is moving around the Sun, and the Sun is moving around our galaxy. Scientists have discovered several laws that explain motion and the causes of changes in motion. The physics of motion is all about forces. Forces need to act upon an object to get it moving, or to change its motion.

4. Words we need to know Acceleration - the rate at which velocity changes over time; an object accelerates if its speed, direction, or both change Force - a push or pull on an object that can cause a change in movement Energy - the ability to do work or cause change Law - conclusions based on repeated scientific experiments and observations over many years and which have become accepted universally within the scientific community Mechanics - the area of physics concerned with the motions of physical objects, more specifically the relationships among force, matter, and motion

5. Words we need to know Mass - the total amount of matter in something Velocity - the speed of an object in a particular direction Work - when an object is moved in the same direction as the force is applied Centripetal Force - any center seeking force that causes an object to move in a circle Inertia - the tendency of an object to resist a change in motion Gravity - a force that pulls objects toward each other Physics - the most basic science that examines the fundamental laws relating matter and energy and is called the "mother" of all sciences