Text: Engineering Mechanics: Vol. 1 Statics, 2nd Edition by W.F. Riley and L.D. Sturges. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York. 1996.
Prerequisites: Credit or classification in Math 166 (Calculus II) and credit or classification in Phys 221 (Introduction to Classical Physics I).
Course Emphasis: The course emphasis is on the physics of rigid body equilibrium. Calculation of the support reactions on and internal forces in rigid bodies is an important first step in the analysis of structures.
Grading: The final grade in the course will be allotted on the following basis:
| 3 exams at 20% each | 60% |
| Final Exam | 20% |
| Homework/Classwork | 20% |
| Total | 100% |
| A | >91.00% | B- | >78.00% | D+ | >65.00% |
| A- | >88.00% | C+ | >75.00% | D | >60.00% |
| B+ | >85.00% | C | >70.00% | F | <60.00% |
| B | >80.00% | C- | >68.00% |
Exams: Note that the three semester exams are night exams -- from 8:00 to 10:00 pm -- at locations to be announced. Make-up exams will be given only for very unusual circumstances and/or approved medical excuses. For anticipated conflicts with a scheduled exam, you must contact your instructor BEFORE the exam to arrange an alternate exam. (All requests for make-up exams must be submitted in writing and must include the reason for the request and a copy of your schedule.)
Calculators: Answers should not be given with significant figures beyond reason (for example, 1.23456789). Final numerical answers should show not more than 5 nor less than 3 significant figures according to standard practice. Of course, intermediate results must be retained to sufficient accuracy to guarantee 3 to 5 significant figures in the final answer.
Problem Format: Proper problem set-up must indicate how the answers were obtained. For each problem, the variables must be clearly defined and the equations written down in symbolic form. The equation should then be rewritten with appropriate numbers substituted for the equation variables so that it is evident that the data is correctly entered with proper units. The excuse of incorrect calculator entry will not be accepted in place of good problem-solving techniques if the analysis is either missing or incorrect.
FBD & Sketches: Accurate sketches and free-body diagrams are a must and are emphasized in all work. A complete free-body diagram (FBD) is required for all equilibrium problems. The FBD is a foundation building block in Engineering Mechanics, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, etc. The incorrect use of the FBD cannot be treated lightly.