Scalars and Vectors: Basics of Mechanics

This lecture covers the fundamental concepts of mechanics, including scalar and vector quantities, cylindrical and spherical coordinates, geometric constraints, Newton's laws applications, work, power, energy, equilibrium, stability, collisions, moment of a force, central motion, Kepler's laws, and modeling physical systems. The course aims to develop a systematic approach to problem-solving, mathematical modeling, and understanding the limitations of theories. It also emphasizes the importance of dimensional analysis, orders of magnitude, and approximations in physics.