Question about order of study of topics in a standard physics course

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The original poster inquires about the typical sequence of topics in an introductory algebra-based physics course, specifically whether rotational motion and torque or energy and conservation are usually covered first after Newton's Laws.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants suggest that the order may vary based on the professor's preferences, with a focus on energy being a common approach. Others question whether professors might cover topics out of the order presented in textbooks.

Discussion Status

The discussion reflects varying opinions on the topic sequence, with participants acknowledging that the order can depend on individual teaching styles. There is no explicit consensus, but insights into the flexibility of topic coverage have been shared.

Contextual Notes

The original poster references their textbook's presentation of material, indicating a potential discrepancy between textbook order and teaching practices. This highlights the variability in course structure based on instructor choices.

sona1177
Messages
171
Reaction score
1

Homework Statement


Hi, I was wondering what does a standard introductory, algebra-based Physics course cover first, rotational motion/torque or energy and conservation? This is the time period right after Newton's Laws. What usually comes next? Circular/Rotational Material or Energy? Thanks!

Thanks

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
most likely Energy; all though this would purely be up to your professor.
 
Ush said:
most likely Energy; all though this would purely be up to your professor.

OK thanks. Yeah, my book presents Rotational motion first. Do the Professors ever cover the topics out of order? Thanks
 
Lots of professors cover topics according to the lecture notes they have already revised or whatever they think is best. It's really up to them- so yes, s/he may (or may not) go in a different order then the textbook
 

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
5K
Replies
41
Views
9K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K