Understanding Physics

This text represents the latest methods in physics instruction. Incorporating new approaches based upon Physics Education Research (PER), this book is designed for courses that use computer-based laboratory tools, and promote Activity Based Physics in lectures, labs, and recitations. · Measurement · Motion Along a Straight Line · Forces and Motion Along a Line · Vectors · Net Force and TwoDimensional Motion · Identifying and Using Forces · Translational Momentum · Extended Systems · Kinetic Energy and Work · Potential Energy and Energy Conservation · Rotation · Complex Rotations · Equilibrium and Elasticity · Gravitation · Fluids · Oscillations · Transverse Mechanical Waves · Sound Waves · The First Law of Therodynamics · The Kinetic Theory of Gases · Entropy and the Second Law of Thermodynamics · Electric Charge · Electric Fields · Gauss’ Law · Electric Potential · Current and Resistance · Circuits · Capacitance · Magnetic Fields · Magnetic Fields Due to Currents · Induction and Maxwell’s Equations · Inductors and Magnetic Materials · Electromagnetic Oscillations and Alternating Current · Electromagnetic Waves · Images · Interference · Diffraction · Special Relativity