Online Class: ABCs of Physics

Embark on a journey through the principles that govern the universe with this comprehensive Physics course, perfect for both beginners and those with prior knowledge. Discover the profound importance of Physics in various industries, including acoustics, electromagnetism, and nanotechnology.
Self-Paced, Online Class
Valnet
 
  • 19
    Lessons
  • 40
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 24
    Hours
    average time
  • 2.4
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Welcome to the world of Physics! Here, we will explore the natural laws of how the universe operates. This introductory course covers all the fundamentals of Physics, and is comprehensive enough for students already familiar with the subject. Join now, and together we'll learn about momentum and energy, force and motion, gravity, particles, the five states of matter, temperature and heat, sound waves, electricity, magnetism, and light.
Today, much of technology and our lifestyles are brought to us by the laws of Physics, yet surprisingly, most people don't understand the fundamentals. Acoustics, astronomy, electromagnetism, electronics, nuclear power, optics, nanotechnology are just a few of the industries requiring an understanding of Physics.
Courses Frequently Bought Together:

Course Motivation

Introduction to Physics:
 
The world we live in is complex and complicated, but, above all, ordered and generally predictable. 

When we throw a ball up in the air, it falls back down.  An ice cube sitting on a table melts.  These are but two everyday events that the Laws of Physics can explain and predict.

Physics is the science of matter, energy, and forces.  An interdisciplinary science, physics uses the tools of mathematics, biology, and chemistry to study natural phenomena. 

Physicists will likely solve some of the biggest problems facing society today, such as the energy crisis.  It is important that you, as a world citizen, have an understanding of the basic principles and applications of physics so you can understand and evaluate scientific news events and issues.

Physical science encompasses many fields and disciplines that are of great
importance and interest including thermodynamics, nanotechnology, optics, particle physics, lasers, astrophysics, and atomic physics.

This course will introduce you to many of the concepts of physics including measurement, momentum, gravity, electricity, electromagnetic waves, particles, heat, and light.

While everyone can benefit from an understanding of physics, Introduction to Physics is ideal for the scientifically inclined person.   There are no course prerequisites, but some understanding of math and algebra is required. 

So if you are ready to increase your understand of the world we live in, dont delay!  Enroll now and get started!

Course Highlights and Review:

Introduction to Physics is ideal for the self-starter with a basic understanding of math and algebra.  The class is self-paced, so you can work as slowly or quickly as your schedule allows. 

While the course offers a great deal of freedom, instructor Bennett is often available to answer questions and provide assistance.  In addition, you can interact with your instructor and fellow classmates in the Class Forums.

Students of the Introduction to Physics will learn the basic principles and concepts of physics that everyone should know and understand.  The six general areas covered are:

      5 Stages of Matter
      Particle Physics
      Properties of Waves
      Magnetism
      Electricity
      Laws of Motion

In addition to these basic concepts, you will also study real-world applications of physics and the current issues and topics in physics research.

This online class is organized into nineteen lessons, each with a general theme and several related subtopics.  Each lesson has an easy to follow outline format that guides you through the learning process.  For example, Lesson II covers the Mechanics of Measurement and has eleven subtopics labeled A through K; Lesson III covers Momentum and Energy and has five subtopics labeled A through E; and so on.

At the end of each lesson, you will complete a 25-50 question exam that tests your mastery of the subject matter contained in the lesson.  Each lesson exam tests only the material covered in that particular lesson.  You will need to score at least 70% on each exam to pass and proceed to the next lesson.

While many people consider physics to be a difficult discipline, Introduction to Physics presents the material in a way that is engaging and easy to understand.  With a little hard work and perseverance, you will soon unlock many of the mysteries of the Universe. 

Such understanding will make you a more educated and informed person, and will benefit you in your everyday life and decision-making. 

A whole new world awaits.  With a flexible schedule and an expert instructor, Introduction to Physics has eliminated all your excuses.  Enroll now and begin your quest for knowledge and understanding of the physical world!

Areas of Study
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.56 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(688 votes)

Lesson 1. Decoding the Universe: The Synergy Between Physics and Other Sciences

Branching into fields like electromagnetism and quantum mechanics, physics drives the development of modern technologies. By studying motion and energy transfer, we obtain insights that revolutionize transportation and communication systems. 39 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-1-WorkSheet-9598.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete Assignment: Why this Course?
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Review Exam

Lesson 2. Classical Mechanics: The Intersection of Theory and Practice

Understanding motion through mechanics enhances our interpretation of everyday phenomena, from the elegance of flight to the efficiency of high-speed trains. By simplifying objects as particles, physicists streamline the analysis of motion, while time remains a crucial factor that interweaves with speed and distance for comprehensive understanding. 38 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-2-Activity-9600.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 2 Activity
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Review Exam

Lesson 3. Physics 101: Basic Momentum

Momentum, originating from physics, describes 'mass in motion' and is calculated using the formula \( p = m \times v \). It is a vector quantity essential for understanding movement and interactions, with applications in fields like aerospace and meteorology. 37 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-3-Downloadable-9601.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Review Exam

Lesson 4. A Deep Dive into the Mechanics of Movement

Engagement with Newton’s principles through experiments or digital models enables learners to visually and practically interpret force and motion. By fostering inquiry and investigation, these experiences enhance comprehension and inspire innovative applications in real-world scenarios. 38 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-4-WorkSheet-9603.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Review Exam

Lesson 5. The Invisible Dance: Understanding Gravity's Universal Influence

Newton's discovery of escape velocity reveals the intricate ballet of speed and gravitational pull necessary for objects to break free from celestial bonds. From conceptualizing black holes and their captivating mysteries to crafting instruments for space exploration, this notion is integral to humanity's astral ambitions. 38 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-5-WorkSheet-9605.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Review Exam

Lesson 6. Exploring Motion: Systems of Many Particles

Translational and non-translational movements reveal the multifaceted nature of motion, viewed through the lens of degrees of freedom. These concepts are key to understanding real-world applications in various fields, from robust architecture to efficient robotics. 36 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-6-HomeWork-9606.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Review Exam

Lesson 7. Understanding Solids: The Intersection of Atoms and Technology

Crystallography unveils the hidden patterns within crystals, where atomic arrangements dictate physical properties and behavior. Through this lens, quantum theories explain transformations like graphite to diamond, revealing the probabilistic dance of electrons and their impact on substance qualities. 38 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-7-WorkSheet-9607.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Review Exam

Lesson 8. From Viscosity to Volume: The Secrets of Gases and Liquids

Matter exists in five unique states, ranging from the rigidity of solids to the charged particles in plasmas. Each state presents its own fascinating properties, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the diversity within nature. 43 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-8-Activity-9608.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 8 Activity
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Review Exam

Lesson 9. Temperature Scales and Their Global Impact

Specific heat ties into the ability of substances to absorb heat, pivotal in applications from climate stability facilitated by oceans to engineering thermodynamic systems like heat exchangers for effective energy management. 41 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-9-Downloadable-9609.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 9 Activity
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Review Exam

Lesson 10. Equilibrium and Beyond: Thermodynamics in Action

The laws of thermodynamics govern energy manipulation within physical systems, with the first law asserting energy conservation and the second law highlighting inevitable entropy increase. The elusive third law introduces the concept of absolute zero, signifying a realm of minimal entropy and molecular motion. 39 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-10-Downloadable-9610.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 10 Activity
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 Review Exam

Lesson 11. The Profound Connectivity of Waves

Waves, as ubiquitous carriers of energy, navigate through various mediums like light streams or ocean swells, influencing both our daily experiences and the intangible reaches of the cosmos. Harnessing their energy-conveying capabilities shows how they operate, from the sound of music to the wireless transfer of data, linking communication, entertainment, and innovation. 40 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-11-WordSearch-9611.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 11 Activity
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Review Exam

Lesson 12. Sound vs. Silence: The Philosophy and Physics of Waves

Sound waves are initiated by vibrating objects, resembling a ripple effect, enabling lectures, music, and environmental noises to traverse different mediums and eventually interact with our ears. Conversely, electromagnetic waves such as light travel through vacuums without assistance from particles, highlighting their contrasting transmission styles. 41 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-12-HomeWork-9612.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 12 Activity
  • Assessment: Lesson 12 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 12 Review Exam

Lesson 13. The Science Behind Everyday Shocks

Static electricity connects everyday experiences, like shocks from doorknobs, to profound scientific principles, reflecting the balance of atomic charges. These principles extend to large-scale phenomena like lightning and practical applications like static electricity mitigation in industry. 40 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-13-Activity-9613.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 13 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 13 Review Exam

Lesson 14. Electromagnetic Induction: The Invisible Force Powering Our World

Electromagnetic induction emerges not just as a scientific phenomenon but as an artistic tapestry woven throughout history, revealing nature's mysteries. Its applications, from the hum of transformers to the whisper of electric guitars, stitch timeless principles into our everyday experiences and future visions. 36 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-14-HomeWork-9614.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 14 Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 14 Review Exam

Lesson 15. Understanding Electric Current: Beyond the Basics

Alternating current (AC), characterized by its periodically changing direction, supports efficient long-distance electricity transmission, while direct current (DC) flows consistently in one direction, powering digital devices and electrical vehicles. The historical 'War of Currents' shaped modern power grids, showcasing the complementary benefits of both AC and DC in today's energy systems. 20 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-15-HomeWork-9615.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 15 Exam

Lesson 16. The Vibrant Universe of Electromagnetic Waves

Born from the oscillation of electric charges, electromagnetic waves travel perpendicularly, manifesting as light, X-rays, and radio signals with varying wavelengths. Electric force fields, generated by charged particles, guide their interactions, enhancing our understanding of energy flow and communication systems. 18 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-16-WorkSheet-9616.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 16 Exam

Lesson 17. Electromagnetism Unveiled: Forces of the Universe

The Lorentz Force Law reveals how moving charges interact with magnetic fields, aligning forces in perpendicular harmony. This understanding underpins technologies from transportation to medical imaging, showcasing the pervasive influence of magnetism. 20 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-17-HomeWork-9617.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 17 Exam

Lesson 18. Quantum Physics: The Basics

In quantum physics, photons embody light quanta, exhibiting constant velocity, masslessness, yet impactful energy and momentum characteristics, central to understanding technologies like lasers and the photoelectric effect. Their particle-like interactions, despite inherent wave properties, form the basis for critical advancements in scientific fields and technological innovations. 18 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-18-WordSearch-9618.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 18 Exam

Lesson 19. Understanding Light's Wave Properties and Applications

The duality of light, comprising both wave and particle characteristics, transforms our understanding of natural phenomena like refraction and interference. This duality underpins advancements across fields such as quantum mechanics and telecommunications through the insightful integration of wave theory and optics. 16 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-19-Activity-9619.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: End of Course Poll; Course Comments
  • Assessment: Lesson 19 Exam
636
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Analyze the interconnections between physics and other scientific disciplines by identifying how theories from physics are applied in fields such as chemistry and biology.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental physics concepts by explaining how energy is harnessed and utilized in modern society using specific examples.
  • Apply Newton's Laws of Motion to predict and analyze the behavior of macroscopic objects, showcasing understanding through practical scenarios and problem-solving exercises.
  • Define and differentiate between statics, kinematics, and dynamics in classical mechanics, relating each to real-world examples and physics concepts.
  • Apply the conservation of momentum principle to analyze collision scenarios and predict post-collision velocities in a closed system.
  • Define and calculate momentum using the equation \( p = m \times v \), including units and direction for vector quantities.
  • Calculate the acceleration of an object using Newton's Second Law by applying the formula F = ma in different scenarios.
  • Identify and describe Newton's three Laws of Motion and provide real-world examples to illustrate each law.
  • Calculate the force of gravity acting on different objects on Earth using Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation, and relate it to observable phenomena
  • Explain the principles of escape velocity and its significance in space exploration, with examples of applications in modern aerospace technology
  • Define and contrast the concepts of sliding, rolling, and fluid friction, providing real-world examples of each
  • Identify and differentiate between translational and non-translational motion, providing real-world examples of each type.
  • Define and analyze the concept of degrees of freedom in multi-particle systems, demonstrating how constraints simplify system behaviors.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: ABCs of Physics
Course Number: 7550327
Lessons Rating: 4.56 / 5 Stars (688 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: Enroll in this course from any U.S. state, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. The course is also accessible to learners in English-speaking countries such as the UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, and South Africa.
Last Updated: July 2021
CEU Value: 2.4 CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher for successful completion.
Course Type: Self-Paced
Assessment Method: Lesson review exams

Student Testimonials

  • "I very much enjoyed the class, some parts of physics are no longer a secret to me!" -- Cindy H.
  • "All the lessons were written such that I, lacking any prior physics knowledge, had no difficulty understanding the subject matter discussed." -- Cindy H.
  • "The instructor was very prompt on grading my exams and getting the results back to me. I am very glad that I took this course." -- Rodney C.
  • "I was completely in the dark about physics and was a little nervous about tackleing this subject. Now I have a lot better understanding. " -- Rodney C.
  • "I am generally well-pleased with the course." -- Michael D.

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