Scientific Notation. You need to be familiar with scientific
notation, which is used for the expression of very large and
very small numbers in a compact format. Scientific notation will
be used throughout our courses. Basic Math. You may need to
refresh yourself on the basic manipulations of algebra. See the
Algebra section of the help sheet from the Physics 150 course (U
of Illinois) for a good overview. Pay special attention to the
examples of equation solution. If you do not understand how
those equations were solved for the desired quantity, see me
about this. It is essential that you be able to solve simple
algebraic equations. In addition to the examples shown above,
make sure you are comfortable with substitution of one equation
into another as a method of solution. Logarithms. If you are not
sure of the definition of a logarithm, study this link. Make
sure that you can obtain both logarithms and antilogs on your
calculator. Units Conversion. This can be difficult. Click here
for a help sheet.