Topic Cluster

Classical Mechanics

Classical mechanics: forces, energy, momentum and motion — Newton’s laws, work and energy, collisions, rotation and the everyday mechanics the rest of physics is built on.

What Is Classical Mechanics?

Classical Mechanics is the physics of why motion changes: the forces, energy and momentum that govern everything from a rolling ball to an orbiting satellite. Everything else in physics leans on it.

Core equations in classical mechanics
Relationship	Equation	What it tells you
Newton's second law	F = m·a	Net force, mass and acceleration
Work done	W = F·d·cosθ	Energy transferred by a force
Kinetic energy	KE = ½·m·v²	Energy of a moving mass
Gravitational PE	PE = m·g·h	Energy stored by height
Momentum	p = m·v	Conserved in every collision
Torque	τ = r·F·sinθ	Turning effect of a force

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Classical Mechanics

What Is the Center of Gravity in Physics?

The center of gravity is the single point where an object's whole weight acts. Learn the formula, how to find it, and why things balance or topple — with worked examples.

17 min read

Classical Mechanics

Moment of a Force (Turning Effect)

The moment of a force is the turning effect it produces about a pivot, found by multiplying force by perpendicular distance (M = F × d). Learn the formula, the principle of moments and the classic distance mistake — with eight worked examples.

15 min read

Classical Mechanics

What Is Equilibrium in Physics?

Equilibrium in physics is the balanced state where the net force and net torque on an object are both zero, so it stays at rest or moves at constant velocity. This guide covers the two conditions (ΣF = 0 and Στ = 0), static vs dynamic equilibrium, the types of equilibrium, worked examples and FAQs.

14 min read

Classical Mechanics

What Are the Types of Forces in Physics?

A clear guide to the types of forces in physics — contact forces like friction and tension, non-contact forces like gravity, and the four fundamental forces — with the F = ma formula and worked examples.

15 min read

Classical Mechanics

What Is Elastic Potential Energy?

Elastic potential energy is the energy stored when a spring or elastic object is stretched or compressed, given by EPE = ½kx². This guide explains the formula, why energy grows with the square of the stretch, and how to use it, with worked examples.

13 min read

Classical Mechanics

What Is Torque in Physics?

Torque is the turning effect of a force, given by τ = rF sinθ. This guide explains the formula, why the angle matters, real-world examples and worked problems.

13 min read

Classical Mechanics

Weight vs Mass: What’s the Difference?

Mass is the amount of matter in an object (measured in kilograms); weight is the force of gravity on it (measured in newtons). This guide explains the difference, the W = mg formula, and how your weight changes across the solar system while your mass stays the same.

12 min read

Classical Mechanics

What Is Power in Physics?

Power in physics is the rate at which work is done, P = W/t = Fv, measured in watts. This guide explains the formula, average vs instantaneous power, real-world examples, and seven worked problems.

11 min read

Classical Mechanics

Potential Energy: Definition, Types & Formula

Potential energy is stored energy an object has due to its position or configuration. Learn the PE = mgh formula, the main types, real-world examples and step-by-step worked problems.

12 min read

Classical Mechanics

What Is Gravitational Potential Energy?

Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object stores because of its height. This guide explains the PE = mgh formula, works through eight problems, clears up common misconceptions, and includes an interactive energy-conservation lab.

12 min read

Classical Mechanics

What Is Hooke’s Law?

Hooke's Law (F = kx) explains how springs stretch in proportion to force. A clear guide to the spring constant, elastic potential energy, the elastic limit and 8 worked examples.

13 min read

Classical Mechanics

What Is Centripetal Force?

Centripetal force is the inward force that keeps objects moving in a circle. This guide explains the F=mv²/r formula, real-world examples, and the difference between centripetal and centrifugal force.

13 min read

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