Introduction to Physics

Landmarks in Physics

Study physics abroad in Europe — virtually! Learn the basics of physics on location in Italy, the Netherlands and the UK, by answering some…

Class Summary

Study physics abroad in Europe -- virtually! Learn the basics of physics on location in Italy, the Netherlands and the UK, by answering some of the discipline's major questions from over the last 2000 years.

What Should I Know?

This course is suitable for anyone; a basic understanding of algebra is suggested.

What Will I Learn?

This unique class gives you the chance to see the sites where physics history was made and learn some of the subject's most captivating concepts.

Syllabus

Unit 1: How can we measure the circumference of the Earth?

Basics of geometry and trigonometry

Unit 2: How do objects move?

Data analysis and kinematics

Unit 3: What causes motion?

Forces, acceleration, and Newton’s Laws

Unit 4: How can we use motion?

Work, energy, and simple machines

Unit 5: How can we determine our longitude at sea?

Simple harmonic motion

Unit 6: What is electricity?

Charge and electric fields

Unit 7: What is left to discover?

Modern physics and open questions

Course Instructors

After graduating from MIT in 2009, Andy spent two years teaching, traveling around the world, and biking across the United States. When he heard about Udacity, he abandoned his vagabond ways to share his passion for Physics and teaching with tens of thousands of incredible Udacity students.

When not coming up with fiendishly clever physics problems, Jonathan daydreams about going into space. A student at University of Virginia, he tries to protect people on the internet with his research in computer security. He also enjoys collecting giraffe figurines, watching German soccer, and singing in the shower.