Introduction to Mechanics: Historical Overview and Fundamentals

This lecture introduces the basics of theoretical physics, focusing on mechanics. The instructor emphasizes the importance of having a strong theoretical foundation for engineers. The historical development of mechanics, from ancient times to the present, is discussed. Key concepts such as vectors, kinematics, and the laws of motion are explored. The lecture covers topics such as ballistic motion, harmonic oscillators, and the concept of energy in mechanical systems. The significance of understanding the interplay between potential and kinetic energy in predicting the behavior of physical systems is highlighted. The lecture also delves into the contributions of prominent figures in the history of physics, such as Galileo, Newton, and Lagrange, in shaping classical mechanics.