ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Here are the formulae that you will be given for the third test. Please do not bring this copy of the formulae with you to the test.

The final homework assignment is now on the homework page.

Here is a hand-written set of notes on the two body problem in gravity. These are based on the Wednesday, March 24, lecture.

Here are my answers to the second test.

Here are my answers to the first test.

Here is a solution to the "cardioid" problem.

David Wymer won the first challenge competition. The problem was ``A rocket leaves the surface of the Earth moving tangent to the surface and at the escape speed. What is the maximum distance from the Earth that the rocket goes?'' Here is David's solution.

I have changed the grading portion of the course syllabus. Please take a look at it so that you can judge how you are doing.

I have changed the tentative date for test 3. You might want to take a look at the homework page.

Fluency in algebra, trigonometry and calculus is necessary for your success in Mechanics I. Take a look at the mathematics self-assessment. The further you are in the calculus sequence (Calc I-III and Differential Equations), the better.

Challenge Problems: Solutions must be typed, hand written or computer generated; they may be emailed to me, handed to me or slid under my office door with the date and time noted. You may work together in groups of any size, but the prize will be equally divided among all of the authors. Solutions will be judged on timing (who is first) but also on clarity of presentation. You are allowed no outside help, other than the textbook. This means no asking senior physics majors how to solve the problem. At my discretion, I might require a conversation with me regarding your answer—this allows me to be certain that you understand your answer. The winning entry will be posted online. The prize is 20 bonus homework points plus a Gator Physics Pocket Protector.

First Challenge Problem: A rocket leaves the Earth at the escape speed and on a path that starts out tangent to the surface of the Earth. What is the maximum distance from the Earth that the rocket will achieve? Give your answer in terms of G, M_e, and R_e.

Schedule — subject to revision during the semester

01/06:  First class. Be there! Some mathematics. Read the mathematics self-assessment and the syllabus before coming to class.

02/12:  First in-class test covering the lecture material, and the reading and homework assignments out of Chapters 1 and 2 of the textbook.