PhysicsLesson 1 of 3

Kinematics, Newton's Laws & Mechanical Energy

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Mechanics describes physical body motion and net forces causing acceleration.

Newton's Second Law: F_\text{net}=m \cdot a

Uniformly Accelerated Motion: v = v_0 + a t \quad \text{and} \quad s = v_0 t + \frac{1}{2} a t^2.
Work: W = F \cdot s \cdot \cos(\theta).
Kinetic Energy: E_k = \frac{1}{2} m v^2.
Gravitational Potential Energy: E_p = m g h.

Draw free-body force diagrams to compute net force F_net.
Apply kinematic formulas for acceleration or velocity.
Use mechanical energy conservation (Ek + Ep = constant) for conservative systems.

Exam strategy

Focus on understanding underlying concepts — exam questions test application, not memorization.