Project Physics Text 1, Concepts of Motion.

Fundamental concepts of motion are presented in this first unit of the Project Physics textbook. Descriptions of motion are made in connection with speeds, accelerations, and their graphical representation. Free-fall bodies are analyzed by using Aristotle's theory and Galileo's work. Dynamics aspects are discussed with a background of mass, force, vectors, laws of motion, equilibrium forces, weight, gravitation, and nature's basic forces. Further information is given in terms of the earth-moon trip, path of a projection, Galilean relativity, circular motion, centripetal acceleration, motion of earth satellites, and simple harmonic motion. Historical developments are stressed in explanation of concepts. A description of Fermi's work and tables of man's place in time and space are included in the prologue. Questions are given at the end of each section as well as at the end of the whole text. Besides illustrations for explanation use, brief answers to the questions are provided. The work of Harvard Project Physics has been financially supported by: the Carnegie Corporation of New York, the Ford Foundation, the National Science Foundation, the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, the United States Office of Education, and Harvard University. (CC)