The courses in mechanics are designed to provide the student with a sound foundation in a subject which occupies a position of basic importance in all branches of engineering and especially in the analysis and design of machines and structures.

While some emphasis is placed on routine calculations and development of formulas, the main objective of the courses is to present general methods of attack and a scientific point of view. The greatest emphasis is placed upon the ability to carry on sustained work at reasonably high levels.

A considerable portion of the time in the courses is devoted to the solution of problems of a practical nature and largely drawn from the field of engineering. In connection with these problems stress is laid on clearness of statement and accuracy of formulation and solution. The technique and methodology are considered of extreme importance in undergraduate study.

The recitations are individual as far as possible and are supplemented by group discussions. It is believed that progressive tests are the fairest criteria for determining the students’ mastery of the subject. Written examinations form an essential part of the courses.

SUBJECTS OF INSTRUCTION
in the
DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICS

Mech 20 Statics. Prerequisites: Math 1, Phys 1, 2.

The course is designed to provide the prospective engineer with a thorough training in the fundamentals of statics, which form an indispensable background for the study of engineering subjects of a more specialized character. The student is acquainted with the underlying assumptions and broad general principles of the science and is encouraged to apply them in the solution of a great variety of problems of practical interest to the engineer.

The principal topics covered in this course are: composition and resolution of forces and couples; equilibrium; analysis of simple frameworks; flexible cables; the laws of friction with general application and special reference to journal, belt and pivot friction, and rolling resistance.

Texts: Seely and Ensign, “Analytical Mechanics”; Joffe, “Problems in Mechanics”.

Mech 21 Kinematics and Kinetics. Prerequisites: Mech 20, Math 21.