Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers
Uni ePrep Course
Now Also Available at SF@NS LXP

textbook used in mechanics for scientists and engineers eprep course

If you’re planning to study science or engineering in university, you may want to consider taking a course on mechanics before starting your studies. Mechanics is the branch of physics that studies the motion and behavior of objects, and it provides the foundation for many other areas of science and engineering.

Here are some reasons why taking a course on mechanics before starting your university studies in science or engineering can be beneficial:

  1. Understanding the basics: Mechanics is a fundamental area of study in science and engineering. By taking a mechanics course before starting your university studies, you can gain a solid understanding of the basic principles that will be essential to your success in later courses.

  2. Practical applications: Mechanics has many practical applications in many scientific and engineering fields. By studying mechanics, you can gain insights into how physical systems work, and how to design and analyze real-world systems.

  3. Problem-solving skills: Mechanics is a highly mathematical field that requires you to solve complex problems using formulas and equations. By taking a mechanics course, you can develop your problem-solving skills and learn how to apply mathematical concepts to real-world problems.

  4. Preparation for university studies: Many science and engineering courses in university build upon the concepts learned in mechanics courses. By taking a mechanics course before starting your university studies, you can be better prepared for the rigors of university-level science and engineering courses.

  5. Competitive advantage: By taking a mechanics course before starting your university studies, you can demonstrate your commitment to your field of study and your willingness to go above and beyond. This can give you a competitive advantage when applying to universities and when seeking employment after graduation.

In conclusion, taking a course on mechanics before starting your university studies in science or engineering can be highly beneficial. Not only can it give you a strong foundation in a fundamental area of study, but it can also help you develop your problem-solving skills, prepare for university-level courses, and give you a competitive advantage. So if you’re planning to study science or engineering, consider taking a mechanics course to give yourself a head start.

Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers ePrep course is one of the ten ePrep courses specially developed to help NSF, NSmen and others to better prepare themselves for studies in universities in Singapore, or overseas. Poor foundation in mechanics, especially for those without going through A-level physics, has been a big source of difficulties faced by those doing conventional engineering such as mechanical or civil engineering, and physical sciences.

This university preparatory course on mechanics is developed in collaboration with the publishers of the popular physics textbook by Serway and Jewett.  The course comes with the textbook at no additional cost, together with excellent learning materials provided by the publishers and a retired NTU professor as the tutor.

While this university preparatory course on physics was designed to help NSFs, it is now opened to everybody and it is highly recommended, especially for those who do not have a strong foundation in physics but are doing engineering, science or technological courses.

Please note that this course, as well as the other ePrep courses provided by NTU, will soon also available at SF@NS LXP, the SkillsFuture@NationalService Learning eXperience Platform.

Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers ePrep Course

– The Learning Contents

I. Compulsory Chapters

1 Physics and Measurement.

1.1 Standards of Length, Mass, and Time

1.2 Modeling and Alternative Representations

1.3 Dimensional Analysis

1.4 Conversion of Units

1.5 Estimates and Order-of-Magnitude Calculations

1.6 Significant Figures

2 Motion in One Dimension.

2.1 Position, Velocity, and Speed of a Particle

2.2 Instantaneous Velocity and Speed

2.3 Analysis Model: Particle Under Constant Velocity

2.4 The Analysis Model Approach to Problem Solving

2.5 Acceleration

2.6 Motion Diagrams

2.7 Analysis Model: Particle Under Constant Acceleration

2.8 Freely Falling Objects

2.9 Kinematic Equations Derived from Calculu

3 Vectors.

3.1 Coordinate Systems

3.2 Vector and Scalar Quantities

3.3 Basic Vector Arithmetic

3.4 Components of a Vector and Unit Vectors

4 Motion in Two Dimensions.

4.1 The Position, Velocity, and Acceleration Vectors

4.2 Two-Dimensional Motion with Constant Acceleration

4.3 Projectile Motion

4.4 Analysis Model: Particle in Uniform Circular Motion

4.5 Tangential and Radial Acceleration 4.6 Relative Velocity and Relative Acceleration

5 The Laws of Motion.

5.1 The Concept of Force

5.2 Newton’s First Law and Inertial Frames

5.3 Mass

5.4 Newton’s Second Law

5.5 The Gravitational Force and Weight

5.6 Newton’s Third Law

5.7 Analysis Models Using Newton’s Second Law

5.8 Forces of Friction

6 Circular Motion and Other Applications of Newton’s Laws.

6.1 Extending the Particle in Uniform Circular Motion Model

6.2 Nonuniform Circular Motion

6.3 Motion in Accelerated Frames

6.4 Motion in the Presence of Resistive Forces

7 Energy of a System.

7.1 Systems and Environments

7.2 Work Done by a Constant Force

7.3 The Scalar Product of Two Vectors

7.4 Work Done by a Varying Force

7.5 Kinetic Energy and the Work-Kinetic Energy Theorem

7.6 Potential Energy of a System

7.7 Conservative and Nonconservative Forces

7.8 Relationship Between Conservative Forces and Potential Energy

7.9 Energy Diagrams and Equilibrium of a System

8 Conservation of Energy.

8.1 Analysis Model: Nonisolated System (Energy)

8.2 Analysis Model: Isolated System (Energy)

8.3 Situations Involving Kinetic Friction

8.4 Changes in Mechanical Energy for Nonconservative Forces

8.5 Power

9 Linear Momentum and Collisions.

9.1 Linear Momentum

9.2 Analysis Model: Isolated System (Momentum)

9.3 Analysis Model: Nonisolated System (Momentum)

9.4 Collisions in One Dimension

9.5 Collisions in Two Dimensions

9.6 The Center of Mass

9.7 Systems of Many Particles

9.8 Deformable Systems

9.9 Rocket Propulsion

10 Rotation of a Rigid Object About a Fixed Axis

10.1 Angular Position, Velocity, and Acceleration

10.2 Analysis Model: Rigid Object Under Constant Angular Acceleration

10.3 Angular and Translational Quantities

10.4 Torque

10.5 Analysis Model: Rigid Object Under a Net Torque

10.6 Calculation of Moments of Inertia

10.7 Rotational Kinetic Energy

10.8 Energy Considerations in Rotational Motion

10.9 Rolling Motion of a Rigid Object

11 Angular Momentum

11.1 The Vector Product and Torque

11.2 Analysis Model: Nonisolated System (Angular Momentum)

11.3 Angular Momentum of a Rotating Rigid Object

11.4 Analysis Model: Isolated System (Angular Momentum)

11.5 The Motion of Gyroscopes and Tops.

12 Static Equilibrium and Elasticity.

12.1 Analysis Model: Rigid Object in Equilibrium

12.2 More on the Center of Gravity

12.3 Examples of Rigid Objects in Static Equilibrium

12.4 Elastic Properties of Solids

13 Universal Gravitation.13.1 Newton’s Law of Universal Gravitation

13.2 Free-Fall Acceleration and the Gravitational Force

13.3 Analysis Model: Particle in a Field (Gravitational)

13.4 Kepler’s Laws and the Motion of Planets

13.5 Gravitational Potential Energy

13.6 Energy Considerations in Planetary and Satellite Motion

14 Fluid Mechanics.

14.1 Pressure

14.2 Variation of Pressure with Depth

14.3 Pressure Measurements

14.4 Buoyant Forces and Archimedes’s Principle

14.5 Fluid Dynamics

14.6 Bernoulli’s Equation

14.7 Flow of Viscous Fluids in Pipes

14.8 Other Applications of Fluid Dynamics

II. Optional Chapters

  1. Oscillatory Motion.
  2. Wave Motion.
  3. Superposition and Standing Waves.
  4. Temperature.
  5. Heat and the First Law of Thermodynamics.
  6. The Kinetic Theory of Gases.
  7. Heat Engines, Entropy, and the Second Law of Thermodynamics.
  8. Electric Fields
  9. …… see complete topics

What You Get in Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers ePrep Course

I. Free Textbook
“Physics for Scientists and Engineers” is a very popular physics textbook, authored by RA Serway and JW Jewett, Jr, 10th Ed.  
II. Free Consultation
A retired NTU professor is acting as the tutor for this NTU ePrep course. You can consult him via email or WhatsApp.
III. Materials Online
1.  Notes, video lessons and PowerPoint files.
2.  Answers/solutions to all questions/problems in the textbook.
3.  Online exercises.
4.  Problems and solutions in files.
5.  Bonus learning materials on discrete mathematics.
IV. Digital Certificate
A digital certificate will be issued if you have successfully completed this NTU ePrep course and passing all the tests at the end of each of the ten compulsory chapters.

Mechanics for SCientists and Engineers ePrep Course 

Sample Materials

1. Video Lesson (Position and Velocity Vectors)

2. Problem and Solution (Motion of Satellite)

Question: An artificial satellite circles the Earth in a circular motion at a location where the acceleration is 9.00 m/s2.  Determine the orbital period of the satellite.

Solution:

solution in mechanics for scientists and engineers eprep course

Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers

Samples of Bonus Materials

Discrete Mathematics (Converse and Contraposition of Statements)

Question:

Discrete Mathematics (Converse and Contraposition of Statements)

Solution:

Discrete Mathematics (Converse and Contraposition of Statements) Solution

Why Mechanics is Important

Mechanics is a fundamental branch of physics that studies the motion of objects, forces, and energy in various systems. It serves as the backbone of many scientific and engineering disciplines, making it a crucial topic for students pursuing careers in these fields. Building a strong foundation in mechanics can greatly benefit such students, as it provides them with a deep understanding of the principles and laws governing the physical world. We present here the various reasons why building a strong foundation in mechanics is essential for students studying science and engineering.

Firstly, mechanics serves as the basis for many scientific and engineering concepts. Understanding the principles of mechanics is necessary for comprehending other scientific fields such as chemistry, and biology. It is also the foundation of engineering, which involves the application of physics principles to design, construct and maintain structures, machines, and systems. In other words, a solid understanding of mechanics is necessary for a student to excel in any scientific or engineering field.

Secondly, mechanics provides students with problem-solving skills. The study of mechanics requires students to apply mathematical and conceptual frameworks to solve complex problems. These problem-solving skills are invaluable in the fields of science and engineering, where students are often tasked with designing new solutions to real-world problems. By building a strong foundation in mechanics, students develop the ability to analyze problems systematically and formulate effective solutions.

Thirdly, mechanics promotes critical thinking skills. As students learn about the principles of mechanics, they are required to apply them to various scenarios and situations. This requires critical thinking and the ability to apply concepts to different contexts. In addition, mechanics encourages students to question and explore the fundamental principles of physics, which fosters a deep understanding of the physical world and promotes creativity and innovation.

Finally, building a strong foundation in mechanics helps students to develop essential skills for future careers. Science and engineering jobs often require individuals who possess a strong understanding of mechanics and the ability to apply it to solve real-world problems. By mastering mechanics, students will be better equipped to understand and navigate the complexities of these careers, as well as develop the skills necessary to contribute to scientific and technological advances.

In conclusion, building a strong foundation in mechanics is essential for students studying science and engineering. It provides a fundamental understanding of physics principles, problem-solving skills, critical thinking skills, and prepares students for future careers in these fields. Therefore, students should prioritize the study of mechanics to ensure they have a solid foundation for their academic and professional pursuits.

Who should take this ePrep Course

Are you pursuing a degree in physical science or traditional engineering? Are you struggling with the fundamentals of physics and finding it hard to keep up with your studies? Look no further! Our “Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers” course is here to help you achieve your academic goals.

Even if you’re not currently going to study in a university, this course is an opportunity to prove to yourself and others that you have what it takes to complete a university-level course. With no pre-requisites required, anyone can enroll and gain the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field of mechanics.

Our team of experienced instructors is dedicated to providing you with the guidance you need to succeed. We understand that many students may not have a strong foundation in mechanics, which is why we offer a comprehensive course that covers all the fundamentals.

Don’t let your difficulties in mechanics hold you back. Sign up for our “Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers” course and take the first step towards a brighter future in the field of physical science and engineering!

Response by NSFs to this ePrep Course

Although mechanics is a very important subject for those doing physical sciences and traditional engineering such as civil and mechanical engineering, the take-up rate is rather disappointing.  We see many undergraduates struggling with these very fundamental but important subject. This web page seeks to emphasize the importance of mastering mechanics and this ePrep course is a good way to help undergraduates greatly to overcome the difficulties they are likely to encounter.

How to Sign Up for this ePrep Course

1 NSF and NSmen
Two Ways

i. Please activate your SF@NS LXP account. You can sign up for this Mechanics course and all our other courses at the SF@NS LXP platform. There is no limit to the number of courses you can sign up for.
ii. Please sign up via NS Portal to make use of the subsidy under the NS e-PREP Scheme. Select to go to “Access ePREP” page, then select NTU as the training provider and choose the e-PREP course “Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers”. You have enough credits to sign up for only one course. After that, please use the first way mentioned above.
2 Non-NS folks
Please sign up with NTU PaCE directly. The course fees is S$342.40.

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email: PaCE@NTU.edu.sg
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