Understanding Mechanics
by Ron Kurtus (updated 17 March 2023)
Mechanics is a branch of Physics that is concerned with the study of motion and forces on objects. The material here will concentrate on classical or everyday mechanics.
Classical Mechanics is divided into kinematics and dynamics. Kinematics is concerned with the motion of objects without consideration of the causes of motion. Dynamics concerns the relationship between the motion of bodies and its causes, namely the forces acting on the bodies and the properties of the bodies.
The knowledge of Mechanics is important for the development of the products we use. It is also an interesting and exciting subject of value in many walks of life. There is a great need for people who understand scientific principles and know how to think logically. Your knowledge and skills in these areas can help you excel in school, advance your career or improve your business.
The purpose of these free online lessons is to give you a start at improving your scientific knowledge of physics that will help you become a champion in the field.
Mechanics Contents
Basics
-- Quantum Mechanics
Kinematics
Kinematics is concerned with the motion of objects without consideration of the causes of motion.
Dynamics
Dynamics concerns the relationship between the motion of bodies and forces causing that motion.
Motion laws
Derivation of a Simple Collision
Applications of Collision Equations
Periodic Motion
Some forces are required
Wave Motion
Units of Frequencies and Wavelengths
Conventions for Doppler Effect Equations
Summary of Doppler Effect Equations
Derivation of Doppler Effect Wavelength Equations
Derivation of Doppler Effect Frequency Equations
Force
Force affects the motion of an object
The Mysterious Force at a Distance
Gravity and Gravitation
Gravity and gravitation are forces that affect the motion of objects
See the main Gravity and Gravitation menu page.
Major topics are:
Friction
Friction is a resistive force that affects the motion of an object
Energy
Energy is a result of force.
Work
Work is the force required to move an object some distance
Machines
Machines are devices that improve the mechanical advantage of the effort