PHYS 1116 — Physics I: Mechanics and Special Relativity
General Information
First in a three-semester introductory physics sequence. Explores quantitative modeling of the physical world through a study of mechanics. More mathematical than a typical mechanics course - for example, considers how choice of coordinate system (Cartesian, cylindrical, etc.) influences the nature of kinematical equations. Includes kinematics, dynamics, conservation laws, central force fields, periodic motion, and special relativity. At the level of An Introduction to Mechanics by Kleppner and Kolenkow, which assumes a strong mathematical foundation in calculus.
Full Cornell course description (FA26)
Credits: 4
Prerequisites and Enrollment
Prerequisites: MATH 1910 or MATH 1120 or equivalent.
Corequisites: PHYS 1110.
Forbidden overlaps: PHYS 1116, PHYS 2216
Recorded Offerings
| Semester | Listed instructors | Course details |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | Maxim Perelstein | Roster / syllabus |
| Spring 2026 | Csaba Csaki | Roster / syllabus |
Workload and General Advice
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Course information checked against Cornell’s Spring and Fall 2026 rosters on September 18, 2026. The listed semesters are verified examples, not a complete offering history.