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Edouard Reny
  • You are currently going through your 2 last years of high school and you took Physics.

  • You are in Grade 10, and you are about to take on Physics next year.

  • You are preparing a High School End Exam in Physics (IB, A-Level, AP etc.)

And you are experiencing trouble with exercises that involve:

_ Rearranging equations (Algebra)_ Manipulating vectors_ Applying trigonometry

Then, this course is for you.

Read more
  • You are currently going through your 2 last years of high school and you took Physics.

  • You are in Grade 10, and you are about to take on Physics next year.

  • You are preparing a High School End Exam in Physics (IB, A-Level, AP etc.)

And you are experiencing trouble with exercises that involve:

_ Rearranging equations (Algebra)_ Manipulating vectors_ Applying trigonometry

Then, this course is for you.

Physics is a truly fascinating subject: What you will learn in high school compiles what humanity knows about the world around us, from the hugeness of our universe to the incredible wildness of the infinitely small (particle physics). This exploration is full of wonders and can really amaze you… That is, if you do not stumble on the notions of mathematics that are needed.

I am a physics teacher, and some of my students get really stuck in Physics, just because of the Maths. They have trouble applying what they learn in Math class to Physics. This is really a shame, and a big loss to them, because the principles in Physics are quite simple and easy to understand. To fix this, I created this course. See it as a bridge between Maths and Physics.

Please note that this course is not a rigorous mathematics class: the focus here is to help the student apply the mathematical tools needed to solve high school physics problems.

In this course, I review with you all the Math you need to feel comfortable in your study of Physics at high school level. This course is actually a 3-in-1: There are three sections.

  • “Algebra for Physics” teaches how to rearrange physics equations effectively and reliably.

  • “Vectors for Physics” explains what are vectors, how to use and manipulate them with ease.

  • “Trigonometry for Physics” dives into the Trigonometric notions you need in Physics.

As a bonus, tons of little practical tips are dispersed in the course. These will make your life as a physics student much easier.

Follow this course with a pen, a paper, a calculator nearby, and be ready to pause the videos. Lessons are punctuated with solved examples and questions for you to train on. There are also videos that compile full exercises. I solve all of them in detail on a white board. You can also access to these exercises as pdf files attached to the videos.

If you take this course, follow it diligently and work on all the exercises. That will guarantee, that Maths will never be a problem again in your studying of High School Physics.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Use maths effectively when solving exercises in physics. students following this course seriously will eliminate the ‘math’ factor in their ability to solve problems in physics: using maths will not be a problem anymore for them, instead, it will have become a strength.
  • Enjoy the benefits of having a mathematical swiss knife available to solve physics questions in all areas where vectors are used (mechanics, electric fields, gravitational fields etc…).
  • Be able to immediately see which one mathematical tool to use depending on the situation.
  • Rearrange equations smoothly and reliably.
  • Manipulate and add vectors graphically and algebraically.
  • Determine vector coordinates. convert vector coordinates from polar to cartesian (and vice versa).
  • Apply mathematical tools on vectors to physics problems (for example, calculating a net force).
  • Feel comfortable with trigonometry.
  • Have a clear view of what is an angle.
  • Understand what the cosine, the sine and the tangent of an angle actually are, practically.
  • Use trigonometry effectively to solve physics questions with vectors (for example, calculating magnitude and direction of a vector quantity).
  • Realize that the unit circle is an incredible ally.
  • Estimate sine and cosine of an angle without a calculator.
  • Represent graphically other trigonometric functions like cotangent, cosec, sec etc…
  • Show more
  • Show less

Syllabus

This first episode reminds the student what a mathematical term is and why this notion is important in regards to rearranging equations. The video discusses on the meaning of the equal sign. It also refreshes some useful notions on fractions. That done, it dives in. The student will learn how to rearrange equations easily using reliable tricks and shortcuts. This video concludes with an exercise: Isolating a variable in an equation involving energy.

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The second algebra video train the student in rearranging a half dozen equations taken from electric and magnetic fields, motion, oscillations and electric circuits. No prior understanding of these subjects is necessary to manage these exercises. Their resolution only requires algebra.

The first video discusses what a vector is. Then, it presents two ways of describing it using either Cartesian coordinates or Polar coordinates. Finally, this episode teaches how to convert a set of vector coordinates from one type to the other. This operation is incredibly common and useful in Physics.

Knowing how to add vectors to one another is crucial to any students in Physics. This episode will show how to do so graphically and algebraically. It contains formal lessons and solved examples.

Episode 3 shows how the maths about vectors presented in episode 1 and 2 come together. It teaches how to solve Physics problems with vectors in 1 dimension, and in 2 dimensions.

Short trailer video presenting the objectives and content of this course.

This course is a bridge between the Maths and the Physics that are taught during the two last years of High School.

Objective: Provide Students with the mathematical tools they need for a smooth and enjoyable studying of their high school Physics course.

Content: 3 main sections

1/ Algebra for Physics

2/ Vectors for Physics

3/ Trigonometry for Physics

In High School Physics, maths is just a tool… like a hammer or a screwdriver. This course shows you how to use such a tool, in the perspective of a physicist, meaning a practical perspective.

In 5 minutes, this video presents in more detail the content of the course “Mathematics for High School Physics”

This course contains three mains sections:

1 - Algebra for Physics

2 - Vectors for Physics

3 - Trigonometry for Physics

1 - Algebra for Physics

The algebra section teaches how to rearrange Physics equations.

Section 1 – Episode 1: Algebra for Physics

This first episode reminds the student what a mathematical term is and why this notion is important in regards to rearranging equations. The video discusses on the meaning of the equal sign. It also refreshes some useful notions on fractions. That done, it dives in. The student will learn how to rearrange equations easily using reliable tricks and shortcuts. This video concludes with an exercise: Isolating a variable in an equation involving energy.

Section 1 – Episode 2: Algebra for Physics, training exercises

The second algebra video train the student in rearranging a half dozen equations taken from electric and magnetic fields, motion, oscillations and electric circuits. No prior understanding of these subjects are necessary to manage these exercises. Their resolution only requires algebra.

2 – Vectors for Physics

The vector section teaches all that is required to know about Vectors in regards to solving Physics question.

Section 2 – Episode1: What is a vector?

The first video discusses what a vector is. Then, it presents two ways of describing it using either Cartesian coordinates or Polar coordinates. Finally, this episode teaches how to convert a set of vector coordinates from one type to the other. This operation is incredibly common and useful in Physics.

Section 2 – Episode2: Adding vectors

Knowing how to add vectors to one another is crucial to any students in Physics. This episode will shows how to do so graphically and algebraically. It contains formal lessons and solved examples.

Section 2 – Episode 3: Solving Physics problems with vectors (in 1D and 2D)

The third video shows how the maths about vectors presented in episode 1 and 2 come together. It teaches how to solve Physics problems with vectors in 1 dimension, and in 2 dimensions.

Section 2 – Episode 4: Vectors – Training exercises

The final video of this section is composed of two full blown exercises that involve vectors. The first exercise deals with electric charges, and the second one, with gravitational forces. Actually, the student is required to use his/ hers understanding of vectors to save a spaceship lost in an asteroid field! These questions can be solved without any prior knowledge of electrical and gravitational fields.

3 – Trigonometry for Physics

The Trigonometry section is composed of 5 episodes. It is aimed at teaching the student the trigonometric notions he or she needs while following a Physics course at high school level.

Section 3 – Episode 1: What is an angle?

The first video goes back to basics by discussing what are angles and how to convert and manipulate them.

Section 3 – Episode 2: Introduction to trigonometry

The second video is an introduction to trigonometry: It teaches what is a cosine, what is a sine, what is a tangent and how to use these. This episode links these notions to the coordinates of a vectors: This is where the student realizes that all pieces of knowledge seen up to now start matching each other like in a puzzle.

Section 3 – Episode 3: Training exercises with vectors and trigonometry.

The third episode is a set of applied physics exercises that blend trigonometric notions with vectors. If the student works on these exercises diligently by following the instructions in the video, he/she will learn to master the link between vectors and trigonometry.

Section 3 – Episode 4: The Unit Circle

The 4th episode presents the Unit Circle, a notion most students will have already heard about. This video shows how extremely useful this representation can be in Physics. This video is full of tips!

Section 3 – Episode 5: The Unit Circle (advanced)

The last video of this course goes a little deeper in the unit circle by showing how to represent graphically other trigonometric functions such as tan, co-tan, sec and cosec?

All episodes, even lesson -oriented ones, contain exercises and training questions.

The final video of this section is composed of two full blown exercises that involve vectors. The first exercise deals with electric charges, and the second one, with gravitational forces. Actually, the student is required to use his/ hers understanding of vectors to save a spaceship lost in an asteroid field! These questions can be solved without any prior knowledge of electrical and gravitational fields.

This first episode of the Trigonometry section goes back to basics by discussing what are angles and how to convert and manipulate them.

This episode is an introduction to trigonometry: It teaches what is a cosine, what is a sine, what is a tangent and how to use these. This episode links these notions to the coordinates of a vectors: This is where the student realizes that all pieces of knowledge seen up to now start matching each other like in a puzzle.

The third episode is a set of applied physics exercises that blend trigonometric notions with vectors. If the student works on these exercises diligently by following the instructions in the video, he/she will learn to master the link between vectors and trigonometry.

The 4th episode presents the Unit Circle, a notion most students will have already heard about. This video shows how extremely useful this representation can be in Physics. This video is full of tips!

The last video of this course goes a little deeper in the unit circle by showing how to represent graphically other trigonometric functions such as tan, co-tan, sec and cosec.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Reviews algebra, vectors, and trigonometry, which are essential mathematical tools for success in high school physics and related standardized tests
Offers practical tips and tricks, which can help students develop a deeper understanding of physics concepts and improve their problem-solving skills
Includes solved examples and practice questions, which allows students to reinforce their understanding and build confidence in their abilities
Focuses on applying mathematical tools to solve physics problems, which helps students bridge the gap between math and physics concepts
Requires students to have a pen, paper, and calculator, which may be an additional cost for some students who do not readily have these items
Teaches vector manipulation and conversion between coordinate systems, which are fundamental skills for solving problems in mechanics and electromagnetism

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Reviews summary

Math essentials for high school physics

Based on the course structure and goals, learners would likely find this course to be a focused and practical guide specifically tailored for applying math in high school physics. Students might say it helps build a necessary bridge, clarifying how to use algebra for physics equations, manipulate vectors effectively, and apply trigonometry concepts. The inclusion of numerous exercises and step-by-step solutions could be highlighted as particularly helpful for practice. It is described as emphasizing application over mathematical rigor, suggesting it is directly relevant for tackling physics problems. This structure indicates it would likely be highly beneficial for high school students struggling with the mathematical side of physics.
Focuses on application, not deep math theory.
"This course is clearly not intended as a full math class."
"It focuses on applying math, not exploring deep theory."
"I needed a practical tool, not a rigorous math lesson, and this delivered."
Taught from a physics teacher's view.
"The instructor understands exactly where physics students struggle with math."
"He teaches math from a physicist's practical perspective."
"It felt like the teacher knew the common math issues I was having in physics."
Provides practice problems with solutions.
"Working through the exercises really solidified my understanding."
"The solved examples on the whiteboard were super helpful."
"I liked having the exercises available as PDFs for extra practice."
Addresses essential algebra, vectors, and trigonometry.
"It clearly broke down the algebra needed for equations."
"Helped me finally understand how to work with vectors in physics."
"The trigonometry section clarified the concepts needed for physics problems."
Applies math directly to physics problems.
"I learned how to use math specifically for physics questions."
"It helps bridge math and physics, showing how tools apply."
"The focus is on practical application, which is exactly what I needed."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Mathematics for High School Physics with these activities:
Review Trigonometry Fundamentals
Strengthen your understanding of trigonometry to prepare for physics problems involving angles and vectors.
Browse courses on Trigonometry
Show steps
  • Review trigonometric ratios (sine, cosine, tangent).
  • Practice solving right triangle problems.
  • Familiarize yourself with the unit circle.
Review: 'Schaum's Outline of Trigonometry'
Reinforce your trigonometry skills with a focused review and practice problems.
View Melania on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read chapters on angles, trigonometric functions, and identities.
  • Work through solved problems in the book.
  • Complete practice exercises to test your understanding.
Algebraic Equation Rearrangement Practice
Improve your equation manipulation skills by working through a series of practice problems.
Show steps
  • Find physics equations from your textbook or online.
  • Select equations and rearrange them to solve for different variables.
  • Check your answers with a solution manual or online calculator.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice Problems: Unit Circle
Master the unit circle by solving practice problems involving angles, sine, and cosine.
Show steps
  • Draw the unit circle and label key angles.
  • Find sine and cosine values for various angles.
  • Use the unit circle to solve trigonometric equations.
Review: 'Physics for Scientists and Engineers'
Expand your understanding of physics concepts with a comprehensive textbook.
Show steps
  • Read relevant chapters on algebra, vectors, and trigonometry.
  • Work through example problems in the book.
  • Compare the book's explanations with the course material.
Create a Vector Addition Guide
Solidify your understanding of vector addition by creating a visual guide explaining the process.
Show steps
  • Review vector addition methods (graphical and algebraic).
  • Create diagrams illustrating vector addition.
  • Write clear explanations of each step.
  • Share your guide with classmates for feedback.
Physics Problem Solving Portfolio
Create a portfolio of solved physics problems demonstrating your mastery of algebra, vectors, and trigonometry.
Show steps
  • Select challenging physics problems from your textbook or online.
  • Solve each problem step-by-step, showing all your work.
  • Explain the concepts and techniques used in each solution.
  • Organize your solutions into a portfolio.

Career center

Learners who complete Mathematics for High School Physics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Physics Teacher
A Physics Teacher shares their passion for the universe with students, guiding them through fundamental concepts. They design curricula, deliver engaging lessons, assess student understanding, and foster a stimulating learning environment. This course, designed as a bridge between Math and Physics, may be particularly helpful. It reviews algebra, vectors, and trigonometry and shows how they can be applied to solve physics problems. A future physics teacher can use this course to better understand the difficulties students face with mathematical concepts and to refine their teaching strategies accordingly.
Tutor
A Tutor provides personalized instruction and support to students, helping them grasp challenging concepts and improve their academic performance. They assess learning styles, tailor teaching methods, and offer targeted assistance with homework and test preparation. This course, which focuses on applying mathematical tools to solve physics problems, may be beneficial for future tutors. By mastering the material presented in the algebra, vectors, and trigonometry sections, a tutor can build a foundation for effectively guiding students through physics concepts and problem-solving techniques.
Curriculum Developer
A Curriculum Developer designs and creates educational materials, including lesson plans, assessments, and multimedia resources, that align with learning objectives and standards. They collaborate with educators to ensure the curriculum is engaging, effective, and accessible to all students. This course focuses on the intersection of mathematics and physics, and may be helpful for future curriculum developers. By understanding how mathematical concepts like algebra, vectors, and trigonometry are applied in physics, a curriculum developer can create more integrated and relevant learning experiences for high school students.
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace Engineers design, develop, and test aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They apply principles of physics, mathematics, and engineering to create efficient and safe aerospace systems. Given the reliance of aerospace engineering on physics, this course can guide engineers and show them how to apply vector manipulation and trigonometric functions in the design of aircraft. Specifically, the review of vectors and trigonometry covered in this course becomes indispensable.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design, develop, test, and manufacture mechanical devices and systems. They apply principles of physics and mathematics, including mechanics, thermodynamics, and materials science, to create innovative solutions for a wide range of applications. Understanding the mathematical foundations of physics is crucial for success. This course's focus on algebra, vectors, and trigonometry can help mechanical engineers solve problems related to motion, forces, and energy.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacturing of electrical equipment. They apply principles of physics and mathematics to create and improve electrical components, devices, and systems. This course covers vector applications to electric fields, and electrical engineers may find this helpful. The course may also come in handy when reviewing trigonometry, which is important in electrical circuit analysis.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers design, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. They apply principles of physics, mathematics, and engineering to ensure the safety and efficiency of these structures. This course may be helpful in building a foundation in mathematical techniques used in physics. Civil engineering often involves vector analysis and trigonometry, which are covered in this course.
Science Communicator
A Science Communicator translates complex scientific information into accessible and engaging content for the public. They use various media, to explain scientific concepts, research findings, and technological advancements to a broad audience. This course, which bridges the gap between mathematics and physics, may be beneficial for future science communicators. The course's emphasis on practical application and clear explanations can inform the communicator's approach to simplifying complex topics for a wider audience.
Game Developer
Game Developers create video games for various platforms. They use programming languages, design tools, and creative skills to bring game worlds and characters to life. Game development requires a strong understanding of physics and mathematics for realistic simulations. This course may be helpful for aspiring game developers. The course could lead to better understanding of mechanics and movement.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts examine data using statistical techniques and software to identify trends, patterns, and insights. They develop reports and visualizations to communicate their findings to stakeholders and support data-driven decision-making. Data analysis, used throughout physics, relies on mathematical concepts, and this course may be helpful. The course can guide analysts through various concepts.
Lab Technician
Lab Technicians assist scientists and researchers in conducting experiments and analyzing data in a laboratory setting. They prepare samples, operate equipment, and maintain accurate records. This course may be helpful for aspiring lab technicians, especially those working in physics or engineering labs. The course can familiarize lab technicians with fundamental mathematical concepts used in physics experiments.
Software Developer
A Software Developer designs, develops, and tests software applications and systems. They write code, debug programs, and collaborate with other developers to create innovative software solutions. This course, which covers the use of vectors and trigonometry, may be helpful for software developers. This is especially true for those working in fields like game development, simulation, and data visualization, where physics and mathematical concepts are commonly used.
Data Scientist
Data Scientists analyze large datasets to extract meaningful insights and inform decision-making. They apply statistical techniques, machine learning algorithms, and data visualization tools to identify trends, patterns, and anomalies in data. This course may prove useful to data scientists. The course can help data scientists who need to understand the underlying physics of the systems they are analyzing.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts provide guidance to businesses and individuals making investment decisions. They assess financial data from the past, present, and future; analyze economic trends; review a company's financial statements and make recommendations. If the financial analyst focuses on industries related to physics, then learning about physics may be useful. This course may be helpful in building a foundation in physics.
Statistician
Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret numerical data to identify trends, patterns, and relationships. They apply statistical methods to solve problems in various fields such as healthcare, business, and government. This course may be helpful for statisticians, especially those who work in scientific fields where physics principles are relevant. Physics requires statistical analysis, and this course may be relevant for them.
Market Research Analyst
Market Research Analysts study market conditions to examine potential sales of a product or service. They help companies understand what products people want, who will buy them, and at what price. This course is not correlated to Market Research Analyst. Therefore, I will find a suitable replacement. A more suitable placement would be a Data Analyst.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Mathematics for High School Physics.
Standard textbook used in many introductory physics courses. It provides a comprehensive overview of physics concepts, including mechanics, electricity, and magnetism. It is particularly useful for students who want to delve deeper into the theoretical foundations of physics. While it covers more material than this course, it serves as an excellent reference for understanding the underlying principles.

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