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How Things Work

An Introduction to Physics

Louis A. Bloomfield

An introduction to physics in the context of everyday objects.

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Syllabus

Course Introduction

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Skating

Professor Bloomfield examines the principle of inertia through skate boarding. Objects at rest tend to remain at rest while objects in motion, tend to remain in motion. Why does a stationary skater remain stationary? Why does a moving skater tend to continue moving? How can we describe the fluid, effortless motion of a coasting skater? How does a skater start, stop, or turn? Why does a skater need ice or wheels in order to skate? Physics concepts covered include Newton's first and second laws and 5 physical quantities: position, velocity, acceleration, force, and mass.

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Introduces physics concepts through hands-on experiments with everyday objects, making them more accessible and relatable

Provides a solid foundation in foundational physics concepts, such as Newton's laws, force, motion, and energy

Engaging and interactive, featuring demonstrations, experiments, and real-world examples to illustrate concepts

Well-structured and sequential, allowing learners to build on their understanding gradually

Suitable for beginners with little to no background in physics

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Reviews summary

Physics explained with everyday objects

learners say this course provides a clear and accessible introduction to physics concepts. They particularly highlight the effectiveness of the everyday examples and demonstrations, finding that they make abstract ideas tangible and easier to grasp. Many describe it as great for beginners with no prior background in the subject. Students often praise the engaging teaching style of Professor Bloomfield. While the course is widely appreciated for its clarity and practical approach, some learners note it lacks depth for those seeking a more advanced or mathematically rigorous treatment of physics.

Assesses understanding of key concepts.

"The final exam covered all the main topics discussed in the lectures."

"The quizzes and final assessments reinforce the lecture material well."

"Found the quizzes fair and representative of the content."

"Some exam questions required careful thought, but were manageable."

Excellent starting point for physics newcomers.

"Perfect course if you're new to physics and feel intimidated by it."

"Highly accessible for someone like me with absolutely no prior background in the subject."

"Didn't feel overwhelmed or lost at all as a beginner."

"This is a truly introductory level course that builds confidence."

Professor Bloomfield is excellent.

"Professor Bloomfield is a fantastic lecturer who makes learning fun."

"His enthusiasm for physics is clear and makes the lectures enjoyable."

"One of the best online instructors I've had; very clear and engaging."

"He has a talent for making potentially difficult topics interesting and accessible."

Concepts are made easy to understand.

"Professor Bloomfield has a knack for explaining complex ideas simply."

"The way concepts are explained is really clear and easy to follow."

"Everything just seemed to click thanks to the clear lectures."

"Found the explanations very straightforward and logical."

Physics seen in familiar objects and actions.

"Loved the examples using skating, seesaws, and falling balls."

"Applying physics principles to everyday things was brilliant and insightful."

"The demonstrations made the theoretical physics concepts real and relatable."

"It's amazing how these physical principles are present in things we see and do daily."

May be too basic for some learners.

"If you have some physics background, this might feel too simple."

"I was hoping for a bit more mathematical rigor behind the concepts."

"Doesn't delve deep into the theoretical or complex aspects of physics."

"It's a good overview, but not suitable for in-depth academic study."

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 How Things Work: An Introduction to Physics with these activities:

Refresh Newton's Laws

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Revisit Newton's three laws of motion to build a stronger foundation for the course content.

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Review the definitions of the three laws.
Identify examples of each law in everyday life.

Volunteer at a Science Museum

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Engage with physics in a practical setting by volunteering at a science museum.

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Find a local science museum.
Inquire about volunteer opportunities.

Watch Video Tutorials

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Supplement your learning by watching video tutorials that provide visual explanations of physics concepts.

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Find video tutorials on physics topics covered in the course.
Watch the videos and take notes on the key points.

Four other activities

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Solve Physics Problems

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Practice solving physics problems to strengthen your problem-solving skills and deepen your understanding of concepts.

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Find a set of practice problems online or in a textbook.
Solve the problems using the concepts covered in the course.
Check your answers against the provided solutions.

Read 'Feynman Lectures on Physics: Volume 1'

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Expand your understanding of physics by reading a classic textbook that provides a comprehensive overview of the subject.

View The Feynman Lectures on Physics, Vol. I: The... on Amazon

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Acquire a copy of the book.
Read the assigned chapters and take notes.
Solve the practice problems at the end of each chapter.

Explain a Physics Concept

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By explaining physics in your own words, you can improve your comprehension and recall of the material.

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Choose a physics concept covered in the course.
Write a clear and concise explanation of the concept.
Create a visual aid or demonstration to illustrate the concept.
Share your explanation with a classmate or online forum.

Build a Simple Machine

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Apply your knowledge of physics by building a simple machine, such as a lever, pulley, or inclined plane.

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Design your machine.
Gather the necessary materials.
Build the machine.
Test the machine and make adjustments as needed.
Write a report on your project.

Career center

Learners who complete How Things Work: An Introduction to Physics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineers design, build, and operate machines, systems, and devices for various industries, from energy to manufacturing. An understanding of the principles taught in this course, such as Newton's laws of motion, gravity, and energy, is essential for success in this field. By taking this course, you can build a solid foundation in physics that will help you excel as a Mechanical Engineer.

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Civil Engineer

Civil Engineers design and oversee the construction and maintenance of infrastructure projects, such as bridges, roads, and buildings. A strong understanding of physics, including the principles covered in this course, is crucial for ensuring the safety and stability of these structures. This course will provide you with a comprehensive foundation in physics that will be invaluable in your career as a Civil Engineer.

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Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace Engineers design, build, and test aircraft, spacecraft, and other vehicles that operate in the air and space. A deep understanding of physics, including the principles taught in this course, such as Newton's laws of motion, fluid dynamics, and thermodynamics, is essential for success in this field. This course will provide you with a strong foundation in physics that will prepare you for a successful career as an Aerospace Engineer.

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Nuclear Engineer

Nuclear Engineers design, operate, and maintain nuclear power plants and other nuclear facilities. A comprehensive understanding of physics, including the principles covered in this course, such as nuclear physics, thermodynamics, and radiation protection, is crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of these facilities. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in physics that will be invaluable in your career as a Nuclear Engineer.

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Materials Scientist

Materials Scientists research and develop new materials with improved properties for various applications. A strong understanding of physics, including the principles taught in this course, such as solid-state physics, condensed matter physics, and materials characterization, is essential for success in this field. This course will provide you with a comprehensive foundation in physics that will help you excel as a Materials Scientist.

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Geophysicist

Geophysicists study the physical properties of the Earth, including its interior, atmosphere, and oceans. A strong understanding of physics, including the principles taught in this course, such as geophysics, seismology, and gravity, is crucial for understanding the Earth's structure and processes. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in physics that will be invaluable in your career as a Geophysicist.

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Physicist

Physicists study the fundamental laws of nature and the properties of matter and energy. A comprehensive understanding of physics, including the principles covered in this course, such as classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics, is essential for success in this field. This course will provide you with a strong foundation in physics that will prepare you for a successful career as a Physicist.

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Science Teacher

Science Teachers educate students about the principles of science and the natural world. A strong understanding of physics, including the principles taught in this course, is crucial for effectively teaching these concepts to students. This course will provide you with a comprehensive foundation in physics that will help you excel as a Science Teacher.

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Patent Attorney

Patent Attorneys help inventors protect their intellectual property by drafting and filing patents. A strong understanding of physics, including the principles taught in this course, such as the laws of motion, energy, and thermodynamics, is essential for understanding the inventions and technologies that are the subject of patents. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in physics that will be invaluable in your career as a Patent Attorney.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create instructional materials, manuals, and other documents that explain complex technical information to users. A strong understanding of physics, including the principles taught in this course, such as the laws of motion, energy, and thermodynamics, is essential for effectively communicating technical concepts to non-experts. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in physics that will help you excel as a Technical Writer.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to identify trends and patterns. A strong understanding of mathematics and statistics, including the principles taught in this course, such as probability, statistics, and linear algebra, is essential for success in this field. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in mathematics and statistics that will help you excel as a Data Analyst.

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. A strong understanding of computer science, including the principles taught in this course, such as algorithms, data structures, and software design, is essential for success in this field. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in computer science that will help you excel as a Software Engineer.

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Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts evaluate and recommend investments for individuals and organizations. A strong understanding of mathematics and statistics, including the principles taught in this course, such as probability, statistics, and linear algebra, is essential for success in this field. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in mathematics and statistics that will help you excel as a Financial Analyst.

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Project Manager

Project Managers plan, execute, and oversee projects to achieve specific goals. A strong understanding of project management principles, including the principles taught in this course, such as project planning, risk management, and resource management, is essential for success in this field. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in project management that will help you excel as a Project Manager.

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Quality Assurance Analyst

Quality Assurance Analysts ensure that products and services meet quality standards. A strong understanding of quality assurance principles, including the principles taught in this course, such as quality control, testing, and inspection, is essential for success in this field. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in quality assurance that will help you excel as a Quality Assurance Analyst.

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Reading list

We've selected 26 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 How Things Work: An Introduction to Physics.

The Feynman Lectures on Physics, (w/audio)

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This legendary series of lectures provides an in-depth and engaging exploration of physics, offering a comprehensive complement to the course material.

How Things Work

An Introduction to Physics

Two deals to help you save

What's inside

Syllabus

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Save this course

Reviews summary

Physics explained with everyday objects

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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