PHYSICS 1740
Physics I
The first course in a two-semester, calculus-based introduction to the concepts, laws, and structure of physics. Topics include kinematics, Newton's laws, energy, linear momentum, angular momentum, the conservation laws, gravitational force, fluids, harmonic motion, wave motion and interference, sound, and special relativity. Small-group problem-solving exercises and active class participation are integral parts of the course. This course has evening exams, at which attendance is required. Previous or concurrent enrollment in Calculus I is required for this course, although previous or concurrent enrollment in Calculus II strongly recommended. Taking Introductory Physics as a first-year student is compatible with on-time completion of all pre-health requirements.
Instructors
Augusto Medeiros da Rosa, Craig Lincoln, Francesc Ferrer, Jonathan Morris, Karthik Ramanathan, Mairin Hynes, Shankar Mukherji, Sheng Ran
Reviews
Spent more time on discussion questions rather than teaching. A lot of the complex topics are missed as we are discussing elementary physics questions rather than learning material beyond it. Just watch Dr. Hynes or something.
3/25/2026
She is extremely engaging in class. Her lectures are awesome and she really helps you understand physics. The class might be hard but she is definitely the best.
2/14/2026
Her lectures were so clear and engaging. I previously hated physics but because of her I began to enjoy the subject. Super approachable and easy to ask questions to, overall incredible professor and incredible person
1/24/2026
Mukherji was an okay professor. His lectures moved slow and were helpful for my friend that hadn't taken physics before. He explained things well and I did fine in the class, but the TA's graded wayyyy too hard. I was bored about a few minutes in and often watched Prof. Hynes' recorded lectures (take her omg she's awesome).
12/22/2025
He's very loud (in a good way) and talks in a way to keep your attention. He explains things pretty well, responds to emails quickly, and tries to engage people by calling on different parts of the room, which sometimes means he takes a long time waiting for someone to volunteer. It's a big class, so there's only so much he can do. Pretty decent.
12/22/2025
Although I would say he was good at lecturing, i feel like we never really got through problems and therefore never had time to learn how to solve the problem. Overall, he is very kind and wants to help.
12/16/2025
I found physics to be rather challenging, but Dr. Ramanathan's lectures were very clear and helpful! He checks in with the class intermittently to ensure that the material is understood, and he presents numerous practice problems so that you can see the material being applied. There were also a lot of very cool physics demonstrations!
12/15/2025
Professor Ran is a great person who truly cares about his students. He is very good and fueling in-class discussions about relevant topics. My main complaint is that at times it can be hard to understand him between his accent and the microphone. So, if you don't see that being an issue, and you benefit from discussion to learn. I would recommend.
12/10/2025
Prof. Medeiros is very enthusiastic about Physics, which is good for learning but not so much for my ears.
12/2/2025
His lectures are very interactive, and I personally love that because it keeps me engaged. I think physics is that type of class where if you don't understand every step, it will be very difficult to understand the overall concepts. They also provide a lot of resources to study.
11/21/2025
He's good at teaching especially compared to the other Physics I professors. Super nice and wants to help you.
11/19/2025
People say Hynes is the best lecturer for intro physics, but I think that Dr. Mukherji is really great and very interesting to listen to. I never feel confused or behind other students in other lecture sections. I would highly recommend and I don't know why people don't talk more about how good he is at lecturing.
11/10/2025
This is for Physics 191 and 192. Professor Hynes is an amazing lecturer, explains concepts clearly and welcomes all questions. Her teaching style is perfect for students who like taking thorough notes. She's also incredibly kind and supportive, which makes a big difference. Concept-wise, physics is challenging, but manageable and not impossible.
7/10/2025
Physics 191 is a hard class, but Professor Mukherji is very knowledgable. He goes through the concepts well, although it may be tough with no physics background. Would take again.
2/13/2025
Very passionate and caring professor. Enthusiastic about teaching and understanding about anything you might not get. Very good lectures with my only problem being that at times some parts of the solving process were unexplained or glossed over, though this is an issue with many professors. Would definitely take a class from him again.
2/11/2025
Really encourages in class participation and teaches at a moderate pace. Always willing and excited to answer questions, very friendly and polite.
1/14/2025
I didn't have a strong physics background before taking this class, but Professor Hynes helped me greatly develop my confidence in physics. She shows a great enthusiasm for the subject, which enhances the lectures. She gives great examples during class. She is very accessible for questions after class as well.
1/13/2025
He is very funny and energetic during lectures. Clearly puts a lot of effort into making the class interesting and engaging. He explains things in a clear and understandable manner, and is available after and outside of class
12/25/2024