Introduction to Calculus-Based Physics (MIT 801)

Course Goals

• Introduce students to calculus-based physics
• Many students may have prior experience (high school level), but it is not required
• Core focus: Newtonian mechanics
  • Also covers fluid mechanics and kinetic gas theory to a lesser extent

Course Requirements

• General Institute Requirement at MIT
• Two options: This course or the slightly advanced 801-2
• Assessment: Traditional exams
• Lecture Venue: Main lecture hall, 26.100
• Recitations: Smaller groups, problem-solving sessions with professors

Lecturer's Approach

• Aims to make every lecture an event
• Topics occasionally extend beyond the standard curriculum:
  • Neutron stars
  • Black holes
  • Big Bang cosmology
  • Supernova explosions
  • Musical instruments
• Final lecture: Lecturer's research on astronomical x-ray observations using high-altitude balloons

Additional Course Content

• Beyond Newtonian mechanics, fluid mechanics, and kinetic gas theory
• Integrates natural connections to advanced topics and phenomena

Lecturer's Goals

• Not to overload students with equations but to emphasize fundamental concepts
• Encourage appreciation and love for physics
• Ensure students remember core principles even if they don't use physics in the future
• Highlight the beauty of physics