Mechanics is the branch of science concerned with the interaction of energy and forces with physical bodies, objects, and materials. In other words, it is the study of how things move, and it is part of the broader field of physics. Mechanics is important for understanding the design and operation of machines and tools, as well as the principles governing the actions of biological, astrological, and even atomic and subatomic systems.

Classical mechanics broadly encompasses the motion of macroscopic objects, and includes familiar concepts like momentum, gravity, and rotational motion. These principles are essential for mechanical engineering applications ranging from the creation of machines as simple as a wheelbarrow to cutting-edge robotics. These mechanics can also be used to describe human actions; for example, the way a baseball pitcher throws a curveball.

In recent decades, the field of quantum mechanics has emerged to explain motion of atoms and subatomic particles. Unlike classical mechanics, the principles governing these phenomena are not as obvious or intuitive as the macroscopic world we move through in our daily lives, and it has required enormous advances in science and technology to be able to conduct experiments to discover and understand these properties.

A mastery of the principles of mechanics is essential for careers in engineering, and especially for mechanical engineers. Professionals in this field are responsible for the design, manufacture, and operation of machines ranging from construction equipment to medical devices to robots. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, mechanical engineers earned a median annual salary of $88,430 in 2019, and typically have at least a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering as well as a professional license.

Certainly. Coursera offers a broad range of opportunities to learn about physics and engineering topics, including courses and Specializations spanning multiple courses about all different areas of mechanics. Whether you’re interested in mechanical engineering or quantum mechanics, you can learn from top-ranked schools like Rice University, Georgia Institute of Technology, University of New South Wales, Northwestern University, and University of Colorado Boulder. And, since Coursera lets you learn remotely from anywhere in the world, you won’t have to move to start learning about the science of motion.