6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL
Undergraduate - Unit
Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.
Faculty
Organisational Unit
Coordinator(s)
Dr Jasmina Lazendic-Galloway (Clayton)
Assoc Professor Boon Leong Lan (Malaysia)
Unit guides
Synopsis
This unit relates key principles of physics to engineering and technology, and shows how physics, including quantum and nano-science, creates useful new technologies. Energy, momentum and angular momentum: planetary orbits, rocket propulsion, precession, flywheels. Oscillations and waves: resonance, transmission of energy; Doppler effect and speed measurement, polarisation and stress models, diffraction and nano-structures, thin film interference and antireflecting film. Quantum Physics: Uncertainty Principle, wave functions, atomic force microscope; lasers, stimulated emission. The practical component develops measurement, analysis, and communication skills.
Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit students will be able to:
- Identify the basic principles of physics in typical simple situations relevant to engineering, and correctly apply them
- Apply energy and momentum methods to analyse motion of systems
- Explain behaviours involving oscillations and waves and do appropriate analysis and calculations
- Explain, and apply, basic quantum principles to, situations which are relevant in engineering and technology contexts; do appropriate analysis and calculations
- Demonstrate an ability to describe and explain advanced techniques used in relevant engineering or physics contexts
- Make reliable measurements, estimate uncertainties, analyse, evaluate and interpret data in cases appropriate to engineering and related to the theory studied
- Show an improved ability to work in teams and to communicate and discuss physics concepts, measurements and applications related to engineering and developments in technologies
- Approach new problems and find solutions on the basis of general principles, and evaluate the appropriateness of their proposed models or solutions.
Assessment
Continuous assessment: 60%
Examination (2 hours): 40%
Student are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final examination component and an overall mark of 50% to achieve a pass grade in the unit. Students failing to achieve this requirement will be given a maximum of 45% in the unit.
Workload requirements
Three 1-hour lectures (or equivalent), one 3-hour practice class and 6 hours private study per week.
See also Unit timetable information
Chief examiner(s)
Prerequisites
Year 12 Physics or PHS1080