Click to show Site menu [+]

PHYS2250

Classical Mechanics and Special Relativity

10 Units 2000 Level Course

Available in 2012

Callaghan CampusSemester 1

Previously offered in 2013, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008

Classical Mechanics is the study of mass in motion. At large speeds, the theory of relativity applies. This course provides an intermediate treatment of kinematics, oscillatory motion, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian methods. High speed limits are discussed in the context of Special Relativity.

In order to participate in this course, students must complete a compulsory Workplace Health and Safety requirement. Students will receive full information on this compulsory course component in the course outline provided by the school.

Objectives
On successful completion of this course, students will have:

1. Knowledge and understanding of the classical laws of motion.
2. Competency in using the essential mathematical skills needed for describing mechanics and special relativity
3. Problem solving skills.
4. Laboratory-based competency.
5. An appreciation of the influence of classical mechanics and relativity on modern scientific development.
6. An interest in the role of mechanics and relativity in the everyday world
Content
" Review of basics of motion: velocity, acceleration, Newton laws
" Motion in a uniform force field
" Oscillatory motion
" Motion in a central force field, gravitation and Kepler's laws
" Rotating coordinates and non-inertial reference frames
" Many particle motion and modes
" Rigid body motion, inertia
" Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulation
" Special relativity, Minkowski space
Replacing Course(s)
PHYS3290 Special Relativity.
Transition
NA
Industrial Experience
0
Assumed Knowledge
PHYS1210, PHYS1220 and MATH1120 (or MATH1220)
Modes of Delivery
Internal Mode
Teaching Methods
Lecture
Laboratory
Tutorial
Assessment Items
Essays / Written Assignments
Examination: Formal
Laboratory Exercises
Quiz - Tutorial
Contact Hours
Lecture: for 2 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Tutorial: for 1 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Laboratory: for 3 hour(s) per Week for 8 weeks

Timetables

2012 Course Timetables for PHYS2250