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Handbook 1997 : Faculty of Science : Physics

640-261 Energy and Environment

Credit Points:

6.25

Coordinator:

Dr M Livett and Dr L C L Hollenberg

Prerequisite/s:

No formal prerequisites are required but a knowledge of elementary physics will be assumed.

Timetable:

Semester 1

Contact:

18 lectures and 9 x 1-hour tutorials

Objectives:

By the end of this course the student should:

  • comprehend the nature of energy, its conversion from one form into another and the variety of energy options used in today's world;

  • be able to apply physical reasoning to understanding the important contemporary energy issues facing society and appreciate the various options open to us along with their advantages and disadvantages.

Content:

Resource depletion: population growth, energy resources and use, food production and consumption. Energy and Power: thermal physics and energy conservation, fossil fuels, electrical energy, energy from nuclear fission and fusion, renewable energy sources including hydroelectric, wind and solar energies, energy storage. Environmental pollution: Current position and future trends.

Assessment:

A 2-hour end-of-semester written examination (50%); up to 4000 words of written assignments (50%).

Prescribed Texts:

  • Kraushaar J J and Ristinen R, Energy Problems of a Technical Society, 2nd Ed., 1993 Wiley.
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Handbook 1997 : Faculty of Science : Physics 
Status:                   OFFICIAL 1997
Last Modified:            Wednesday March 12 3:36 pm
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Authorised by:            Academic Registrar
Email Enquiries:          Course_Information@registrar.unimelb.edu.au
Copyright © University of Melbourne 1997.