Physics for biosciences
Dr Don Hutton
6 points * Four 1-hour lecture/problem classes and one 3-hour laboratory class per week * Second semester * Clayton * Prerequisite: VCE Physics recommended * Prohibition: PHS1022
This subject emphasises biological applications of physics and follows PHS1031. It comprises three units. (1) Thermal physics and properties of matter: Mechanical properties of materials, vibrations, sound and ultrasound, gases, diffusion, osmosis, partial pressure, thermal properties, phase changes, heat transfer, solar energy, heat-work conversion, metabolism. (2) Electrical circuits: DC circuits, measurement methods, capacitors, transmission of signals, magnetic fields and currents, electromagnetic induction, oscillations, AC circuits, resonance, transformers. (3) Instrumentation: Transducers for light and temperature, amplifiers, oscilloscopes and chart-recorders, power supplies, remote sensing, ECG and EEG, optical instrumentation, lasers, automated measurements. Laboratory experiments link with these topics and develop important experimental skills.
Assessment
Two examinations (total 3.75 hours): 68% * Laboratory work: 20% * Tests: 12%
Prescribed text
Kane J W and Sternheim M M Physics 3rd edn, Wiley, 1988