Skagit Valley College

Catalog Course Search Details

 Course Title:   General Physics Lab I

 Title Abbreviation:   GENERAL PHYSICS LAB I

 Department:    PHYS&

 Course #:    124

 Credits:    1

 Variable:     No

 IUs:    1.5

 CIP:    400801

 EPC:    n/a

 REV:    2018


 Course Description  

Algebra-based physics lab course to accompany PHYS& 134. The subject matter is mechanics with emphasis on Newton's laws, energy, momentum, and rotational motion.

 Prerequisite  

Prerequisite: Required concurrent enrollment in PHYS& 134.

Additional Course Details

Contact Hours (based on 11 week quarter)

Lecture: 0

Lab: 22

Other: 0

Systems: 0

Clinical: 0


Intent: Distribution Requirement(s) Status:  

Academic Natural Sciences  

Equivalencies At Other Institutions

Other Institution Equivalencies Table
Institution Course # Remarks
CWU 111 Lab
U of W 117
WSU 1XX Transfers as 101 when student completes General Physics I and II with labs
WWU Transfers as 114 when taken with General Physics I

Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, the student will be able to:

  1. Use basic measuring tools, such as meter sticks, digital balances, timers and calipers.
  2. Produce well-designed tables and graphs that illustrate the results of the experiments, and use linear regression to determine the best-fit straight line to a graph.
  3. Correctly articulate the purpose of the lab and how it will be accomplished.
  4. Demonstrate basic experimental skills in the practice of setting up and conducting an experiment using appropriate safety protocols.
  5. Use basic laboratory data analysis techniques, including distinguishing statistical and systematic errors and representing data graphically.
  6. Effectively interpret and communicate experimental results.

General Education Learning Values & Outcomes

Revised August 2008 and affects outlines for 2008 year 1 and later.

8. Mathematical Reasoning

Definition: Understanding and applying concepts of mathematics and logical reasoning in a variety of contexts, both academic and non-academic.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
8.2 Correctly apply logical reasoning and mathematical principles to solve problems.
8.3 Interpret information and reasoning expressed mathematically (for example in spreadsheets, diagrams, charts, formulas, etc.).

9. Scientific Literacy

Definition: Understanding scientific principles, and analyzing and applying scientific information in a variety of contexts.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
9.1 Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental scientific concepts.
9.2 Demonstrate their understanding of the principles of scientific methods, analysis, and reasoning.
9.3 Analyze, apply, and communicate scientific concepts and principles in context (for example, in technological, personal, and/or professional situations).

Course Contents

  1. Scalars and vectors
  2. Kinematics:
    • Displacement, velocity, and acceleration
  3. Statics and dynamics
    • Newton's Laws, forces, and equilibrium
  4. Circular motion and satellite motion
  5. Work, power and energy
  6. Momentum, impulse, and center of mass
  7. Rotational kinematics and dynamics