Review for Upper Division Class Mechanics course?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers around preparing for the Classical Mechanics I upper division course scheduled for fall 2017. The participant seeks recommendations for problem sets to review key concepts, expressing a preference for a limited number of problems from each chapter. Responses emphasize the importance of using a reliable textbook and suggest that the number of problems tackled should align with the individual's confidence in mastering the material. The conversation highlights the necessity of selecting appropriate resources for effective review.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Classical Mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with upper division physics coursework
  • Access to a comprehensive physics textbook
  • Basic problem-solving skills in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Identify and select a suitable Classical Mechanics textbook
  • Compile a list of problem sets from each chapter of the chosen textbook
  • Review key concepts in Classical Mechanics using online resources or lecture notes
  • Practice solving problems to gauge understanding and readiness for the course
USEFUL FOR

Students preparing for upper division physics courses, particularly those focusing on Classical Mechanics, as well as educators seeking to guide students in effective review strategies.

AD MCFC
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Hello, I will take Classical Mechanics I (upper division) course fall of 2017.

I have not seen Mechanics material since fall of 2014 and would like suggestions on how to review the concepts prior to taking the class.

I was pretty good in that class and do not need to "re-learn" anything per say, but would simply like to go through a handful of problems per each chapter. Where should I take these problems from? Any suggestions?

Thanks
 
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AD MCFC said:
but would simply like to go through a handful of problems per each chapter.

Why just a handful? If you've mastered the material, it shouldn't take all that long to do all of them, especially if you have a year. If you haven't mastered the material, maybe it's a good idea to spend some time on it.
 
Vanadium 50 said:
Why just a handful? If you've mastered the material, it shouldn't take all that long to do all of them, especially if you have a year. If you haven't mastered the material, maybe it's a good idea to spend some time on it.
"All of them", does this mean do the 120 problems found at the end of each chapter in your typical heavy intro physics textbook? Explain what you mean here.
I would prefer you answer the question and not get philosophical here. Otherwise, save your time and do not answer it at all.
 
AD MCFC said:
save your time and do not answer it at all.

Gee, that makes we want to give you another piece of advice.
 
Well I apologize, but you did not seem quite interested in giving advice in the first place.
You are telling me to do every problem without specifying where these problems are coming from. Some intro books have hundreds of problems per chapter, while an AP review book might have like 20.

If you were me, which resources would you refer to ? Etc.
 
Pro-tip, being rude to people is not going to make them want to help you.

But to your question, if you have a textbook to work from, do as many problems from each section as you feel you need to be sure you've mastered the material. If that means you only do a few questions from chapter 1 or whatever because it's easy for you, fine, move on to the next. Only you can know how prepared you are.
 

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