PHYS1220
10 units
1000 level
Course handbook
Description
Physics underpins most aspects of modern engineering, technology, and medicine. For example, about 25% of the world's economy is tied to the quantum mechanics of silicon, and many of the most important practical advances in chemistry and biology can be traced to the precise understanding of the behaviour of atoms and molecules provided by quantum mechanics. Knowledge of physics is therefore vital to understanding the world around us. This calculus-based course continues on from PHYS1210 and covers the topics of mathematical tools, electromagnetism, optics and physics of matter.
Availability2024 Course Timetables
Singapore PSB
- Trimester 1 - 2024 (Singapore)
Callaghan
- Semester 2 - 2024
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Explain the basic principles of electromagnetism, optics and quantum mechanics and their relevance to aspects of engineering, technology, physical phenomena, matter and everyday situations.
2. Solve qualitative and quantitative problems using mathematics and the principles of physics.
3. Perform laboratory and computational experiments and interpret the significance of the results with regards to the principles and applications of physics.
4. Communicate the results and significance of both theoretical and experimental work in written reports.
5. Contribute to team and group work for scientific investigations and for the process of learning.
Content
A calculus based course aimed at students who have completed HSC Physics and Mathematics, and may wish to continue their study of physics beyond first year.
- Integrated Physics: introduction to the key mathematical techniques used in physics.
- Electromagnetism: static electric and magnetic fields, electromagnetic induction.
- Optics: behaviour and properties of light, and its interactions with matter, as well as instruments used to detect it.
- Physics of Matter: quantum mechanics, atoms, molecules, solids and nuclear physics.
Assumed knowledge
Mathematics Extension 1 with a result in Bands 3 or 4. It is also recommended that students have undertaken Physics and achieved a result in Band 5 or 6. PHYS1210
Assessment items
In Term Test: Online tests
Quiz: Online Weekly Quizzes
Tutorial / Laboratory Exercises: Laboratory Exercises and Reports
Formal Examination: Formal Examination
Contact hours
Trimester 1 - 2024 (Singapore) - Singapore PSB
Computer Lab-1
- Face to Face On Campus 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 2 week(s)
Laboratory-1
- Face to Face On Campus 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 6 week(s)
Lecture-1
- Face to Face On Campus 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Tutorial-1
- Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 2
Semester 2 - 2024 - Callaghan
Computer Lab-1
- Face to Face On Campus 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 2 week(s)
Laboratory-1
- Face to Face On Campus 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 6 week(s)
Lecture-1
- Face to Face On Campus 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Tutorial-1
- Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 2
Course outline
- PHYS1220 - Semester 2, 2023 (Callaghan) (PDF, 225.4 KB)
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.