Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/how-things-work
Have you ever found yourself watching a skateboarder glide effortlessly, a ball arc through the air, or a seesaw teeter and wondered about the underlying principles at play? If so, Coursera’s ‘How Things Work: An Introduction to Physics’ might be the perfect course for you. Taught by the engaging Professor Bloomfield, this course demystifies the fundamental laws of physics by grounding them in the context of everyday objects and activities.
From the moment you dive into the ‘Course Introduction,’ you know you’re in for a treat. Professor Bloomfield’s passion for physics is infectious, and he has a remarkable talent for breaking down complex concepts into digestible and relatable explanations. The syllabus is thoughtfully structured, taking you on a journey through various phenomena:
- Skating: This module beautifully illustrates Newton’s first and second laws, introducing key physical quantities like position, velocity, acceleration, force, and mass through the simple act of skateboarding. You’ll gain a deep understanding of inertia and how skaters initiate, control, and stop their motion.
- Falling Balls: Here, gravity, weight, constant acceleration, and projectile motion take center stage. Watching how objects fall and move through the air becomes a fascinating physics lesson.
- Ramps: Exploring ramps, you’ll encounter Newton’s third law, conserved quantities, support forces, work, energy, and the concept of mechanical advantage. It’s a brilliant way to see how simple machines leverage physical principles.
- Seesaws: This section delves into rotational versus translational motion, Newton’s law of rotation, and introduces rotational equivalents of physical quantities like angular position, velocity, acceleration, torque, and rotational mass.
- Wheels: Professor Bloomfield uses wheels to provide a clear understanding of frictional forces, a concept crucial to so many aspects of motion.
- Bumper Cars: The principles of momentum, impulse, angular momentum, and the relationship between potential energy and force are expertly explained using the dynamic world of bumper cars.
The ‘Final’ module serves as a comprehensive assessment of your newfound knowledge. What truly sets this course apart is its practical approach. Instead of abstract equations, you’re presented with real-world examples that make physics feel accessible and relevant. Professor Bloomfield’s explanations are clear, his demonstrations are insightful, and the course is designed to build your understanding incrementally.
Whether you’re a student looking to supplement your physics education, an adult curious about the science behind everyday life, or simply someone who enjoys learning, ‘How Things Work: An Introduction to Physics’ is highly recommended. It’s an excellent starting point for anyone interested in the physical world around us, proving that physics isn’t just for textbooks – it’s all around us.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/how-things-work