640-121 Physics (Advanced) A

Credit Points

Coordinator

Prerequisites

Physics and two mathematics subjects, at the level of the final year of secondary school. Students who have completed the VCE will usually satisfy these requirements by having done Units 3 and 4 of Physics, Units 3 and 4 of Mathematical Methods and Units 3 and 4 of Specialist Mathematics.

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

By the completion of this subject the student should:

• comprehend a broad range of elementary physics sufficient to lay a basis for advanced higher year studies;
• have developed skills in applying verbal and mathematical reasoning to the understanding of elementary physical systems and in acquiring and evaluating experimental data;
• appreciate the power and depth of physical theory in a wide range of science and technology.

The subject provides an introduction to: Mechanics: kinematics and dynamics of particles and rigid bodies; gravitation; physical introduction to special relativity. Mechanical Properties of Matter: fluid statics and dynamics; elasticity. Mechanical Waves: propagation; dynamics; superposition. Thermal Physics: thermal properties of matter; thermodynamics; kinetic theory of gases; heat transfer.

Assessment

A 3-hour written examination at the end of the semester and tests and/or written assignments during the semester (75%); laboratory work (25%). Students must complete both laboratory and assignment work satisfactorily to obtain a pass.

Prescribed Texts

• Ohanian H C, Physics. 2nd expanded ed. 1989 Norton.
• Tennent R M, Science Data Book. 1985 Oliver and Boyd.