PHS1001 · Foundation physics

Overview

The unit introduces fundamental principles of Newtonian mechanics, electricity and magnetism, waves and oscillations, and quantum physics. The unit explores these concepts in the context of current technology in areas such as transportation and communication. You will also discover how these ideas link to current research in Physics. The unit further introduces the concepts of experimental design, measurement, and analysis that form the basis of the evidence-based approach that is the foundation of scientific discoveries and theories.

Areas of study: Astrophysics Materials science Physics Physiology

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Explain and understand concepts taught in the unit such as force, energy, work, and wave propagation;
2. Apply their knowledge to solve problems related to these concepts;
3. Evaluate and appraise novel situations in terms of mechanics, electric and magnetic fields, and waves;
4. Execute experiments using a range of experimental equipment;
5. Analyse, interpret and evaluate the results arising from these experiments;
6. Communicate explanations of problems and results of experimentations in written and verbal form.

Workload

The workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours spread across the semester (roughly 12 hours per week) - approximately an even mixture of attendance at scheduled activities and self-scheduled study time. Learning activities comprise a mixture of instructor directed, peer directed and self-directed learning, which includes face-to-face and online engagement.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.