Unit name | Preliminary Physics A - Mechanics, Waves and Optics |
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Unit code | PHYS10003 |
Credit points | 20 |
Level of study | C/4 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
Unit director | Dr. Vasiljevic |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
GCSE Mathematics and Science or Physics or equivalent |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | School of Physics |
Faculty | Faculty of Science |
This unit introduce students to the application of mathematics to solve simple mechanics problems. Students will also be introduced to optical phenomena and be able to analyse simple optical systems. The unit also introduces students to basic practical techniques.
Students will be able to Apply Mathematics (without calculus) and basic physical principles to solve simple problems in statics and mechanics. Describe image formation by lenses and mirrors and be able to perform simply calculations with lenses and mirrors Describe the properties of waves and oscillations in appropriate terminology state the properties of the wave in the electromagnetic spectrum Describe and perform simple calculations on the following phenomena of a) The Doppler effect. b) Interference and diffraction. c) Reflection and refraction, including mirrors and lenses. d) Polarisation. Resonance, harmonics and music. Light rays: mirrors and lenses. Perform an experiment, taking accurate measurements and analysing the results including the errors inherent inthe apparatus Write a formal report of a laboratory experiment
4 lectures and 1 tutorial each week for 12 weeks and 6 laboratory sessions
Formative Assessment:
Weekly problem sheets which are marked and discussed in tutorials. Mark laboratory notebooks
Summative Assessment:
2 hour written exam (80%)
Laboratory mark (20%)
Passing the laboratory elements is a condition for passing the unit
"Advanced Physics" - S. Adams and J. Allday, 2nd edition; Oxford University Press (ISBN-10: 0199146802; ISBN-13: 978-0199146802)