Physics 101 - Energy and Momentum

This Rice course develops conservation methods for analyzing motion and interaction. Energy and momentum lead into collisions, statics and elasticity, followed by an exam. It is a useful next step when force-based calculations are familiar and you want to understand when a conservation law offers a clearer way to solve a problem.

What you will learn

• Choose a system for an energy or momentum analysis.
• Compare collision models and their assumptions.
• Apply equilibrium ideas to a static configuration.

Who this suits

Bring solid algebra and trigonometry, plus the earlier mechanics material. The provider lists intermediate level and assumes familiarity with the sequence’s mathematical approach.

Before you enroll

Conservation applies to a defined system under specific conditions. Account for external interactions before assuming that mechanical energy or momentum remains unchanged.

Coursera lists paid enrollment or subscription access. Check the enrollment screen for included assessments, certificate terms, trials and any financial-aid options. University authorship does not by itself confer admission, academic credit or a professional license.

Put it into practice

Compare two idealized collisions using the same initial velocities. Explain which quantities are conserved in each model and what that implies for the final motion.

Source and review

This overview is based on the provider's published information, checked on 12 October 2026. It is an editorial assessment, not a claim that we completed the resource. Time filters are approximate study ranges; projects and exercises can take longer.

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