Major Equations Of University Physics
Here is a breakdown of the “Heavy Hitter” equations for both semesters. These are the formulas that form the backbone of almost every problem you will encounter in University Physics.
University Physics 1: The “Big Five” of Mechanics
In Mechanics, the goal is usually to find the position (x) or velocity (v) of an object over time.
1. The Kinematic Equations (Constant Acceleration)
Used for projectiles or cars braking. The most famous is:
2. Newton’s Second Law
The heart of dynamics. If you know the forces, you know the acceleration.
3. Work-Energy Theorem
This allows you to bypass time and look only at the “before and after” states.
4. Conservation of Momentum
Crucial for collisions. Momentum is always conserved if there are no external forces.
5. Torque and Rotation
The rotational version of F=ma. It explains how things spin.
University Physics 2: The “Big Five” of Electromagnetism
Physics 2 is more abstract, focusing on how fields interact with space and matter.
1. Coulomb’s Law
Calculates the force between two stationary charges.
2. Gauss’s Law
Used to find the Electric Field (E) for symmetric objects (like spheres or cylinders).
3. Ohm’s Law & Power
The fundamental rules for basic DC circuits.
4. Faraday’s Law of Induction
Explains how a changing magnetic environment creates an electromotive force (EMF). This is how power plants create electricity.
5. Snell’s Law (Optics)
Calculates how much light bends when it moves from one medium (like air) into another (like water).
Quick Study Tips for Success
* Physics 1 is about “The Setup”: Most of the work is drawing a correct Free Body Diagram. If the diagram is wrong, the math will be wrong.
* Physics 2 is about “The Field”: You have to visualize invisible lines. Practice drawing field lines for charges and magnets early on.
* Units Matter: Always track your units (Newtons, Joules, Volts, Teslas). If your units don’t cancel out correctly, you likely used the wrong formula.
Would you like me to create a practice problem for one of these topics so you can see how the math actually works?