What are the essential equations for projectile motion and other physics topics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the essential equations for various physics topics, particularly projectile motion, as a participant seeks help for an upcoming final exam. The scope includes theoretical and practical aspects of physics, with a focus on equations related to multiple topics such as torque, simple harmonic motion, waves, fluid statics, lenses/mirrors and diffraction, magnetism, and gravitation.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests essential equations for projectile motion and several other physics topics, expressing urgency due to a lost study card.
  • Another participant suggests a website as a resource for finding the necessary equations.
  • A different participant argues that memorizing equations is less important than understanding the principles behind them, providing three kinematic equations as useful references for projectile motion.
  • Another reply recommends additional online resources for finding equations but implies that the situation may be dire given the timing of the request.
  • The original poster acknowledges their lack of memorization but indicates familiarity with the methods for solving physics problems.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the importance of memorizing equations versus understanding underlying principles. There is no consensus on a definitive list of essential equations, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to prepare for the exam.

Contextual Notes

Some participants emphasize the need for a deeper understanding of physics concepts rather than rote memorization of equations, which may reflect differing educational philosophies. The urgency of the original request highlights a potential lack of preparation.

eggboy
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I need some help desparately. My teacher allowed us to bring cards to the final with some equations, only my dumbass teacher lost it so I'm screwed atm. I need to know the essential equations for projectile motion (there's 6 I believe) and the ones for:

- Torque
- Simple Harmonic Motion
- Waves
- Fluid Statics
- Lenses/Mirros and Diffraction
- Magnetism
- Waves
- Gravitation

Any help would be GREATLY appreciated. I don't have much to offer except a lifetime worth of thanks. Please help as I am in a very desparate situation at the moment. Cheers.
 
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I never memorise any equations for projectile motion, it is better to work through them from first principles. That way you can always do it. You can solve all project motion questions applying basic physics principles, however, three useful kinematic equations to remember are;

v = u + at

s = ut + \frac{1}{2}at^2

v^2 = u^2 + 2as

As for all the others, you should know all the required formulae off by heart. It sounds to me as if someone has not studied for their final.
 
Try wikipedia or http://scienceworld.wolfram.com/ or something of the kind...

However, I think your case is a bit hopeless if you discover that on the evening of a final, you know. Rather have a beer and enjoy life :biggrin:
 
Ah thanks a lot guys. And yes, hoote, you are somewhat correct. I have studied the methods for solving, just never got around to memorizing the equations or remembering which ones to use lol. Cheers everyone! (Thanks for that link btw, VERY good link)
 

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