Credit: 1.0 | Prerequisite: Precalculus, Physics
This advanced science class endeavors to give future mechanical engineers a glimpse into the kind of analysis done on complex mechanical systems in college. The level of the course is 1st or 2nd year engineering school. Statics encompasses the analysis of objects that are not in motion but still experience stress: bridges, buildings, cantilevers, etc. Analysis of these systems is the cornerstone of every other mechanical engineering discipline and is a good gauge of the future interest and success of burgeoning engineers. Topics include review of Newton’s Laws, vectors, forces, moment (torque), equilibrium, types of supports, joints, trusses, center-of-mass (centroid), and moment of inertia. Calculus is necessary for some of these topics and is taught alongside those units as the need arises. If time allows, a construction project with fine-tuned calculations may be attempted.