Mechanics
Kinematics, laws of motion, work and energy, rotation, gravitation and properties of matter.
What is Mechanics?
Study of motion of bodies and the forces causing it; kinematics describes motion, dynamics explains it
Key formula / rule: Newton's second law
Key points
- Choose between kinematic equations, Newton's laws and conservation laws for NEET mechanics problems
Common exam trap
Using kinematic equations when acceleration is not constant
Definitions
- Name
Mechanics
- Definition
Study of motion of bodies and the forces causing it; kinematics describes motion, dynamics explains it
- Name
Key idea
- Definition
Every problem reduces to kinematic equations, F = ma, or a conservation law for energy and momentum
- Name
Exam insight
- Definition
Largest NEET Physics weightage; energy conservation is faster than force analysis for final speed or height
- Name
Worked example
- Definition
Block sliding down a smooth 5 m incline: v = √(2gh) = √(2 x 9.8 x 5) ~ 9.9 m/s
Learning objectives
Choose between kinematic equations, Newton's laws and conservation laws for NEET mechanics problems
Formulae
- Name
Newton's second law
- Expression
Fnet = m a = dp/dt
- Name
Work-energy theorem
- Expression
Wnet = DeltaK
Common mistakes
Using kinematic equations when acceleration is not constant
Applying energy conservation on rough surfaces without friction work
Keywords
mechanics
kinematics
dynamics
force
energy
momentum
laws of motion