Section 1Classical Physics

In this section, we’ll go over basic physics concepts that apply to animation. Any motion in animation generally calls upon more than one physics concept at a time. But in order to use these concepts in concert with one another, you’ll need to understand the individual concepts and the terminology that goes with each one. If there are previously discussed topics that pertain directly to the subject, these are listed at the start of the section. This will enable you to review any topics necessary before you dive in.

Some concepts relate directly to the “Twelve Basic Principles of Animation” put forth by Disney animators Ollie Johnston and Frank Thomas in their 1981 book The Illusion of Life: Disney Animation. These relationships ...

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