Rice University Physics 101 - Energy and Momentum

Offered by Rice University on Coursera, this course introduces the physics of mechanical energy and momentum. It is designed as a structured, intermediate-level online course for learners who want to strengthen their understanding of mechanics and prepare for more advanced physics study.

Across the course, learners explore energy, work, momentum, collisions, statics, elasticity, and conservation principles. The teaching uses video lectures, readings, conceptual quizzes, homework-style assignments, and a final exam, with a strong emphasis on solving physics problems using algebra, vector analysis, graphical analysis, and calculus.

The course is flexible and self-paced, with an estimated completion time of two weeks at around 10 hours per week. It is part of the Introduction to Mechanics Specialization and includes a shareable certificate on completion, making it suitable for students building subject knowledge as well as learners looking to refresh core physics concepts.