School of Physical and Geographical Sciences  
 
 
PHY-10022 Mechanics, Gravity and Relativity  
Co-ordinator: Prof Coel Hellier    Room: LJ2.04, Tel:34243  
Teaching Team: Dr Arumugam  Mahendrasingam, Mr Philip  Callaghan, Dr Barry Smalley, Prof Rob  Jeffries, Dr Jacco  Van Loon, Dr Joana Maria Oliveira, Dr Dean  McLaughlin, Mrs Patricia  Pointon, Mr Steven  Wye  
Lecture Time: See Timetable...  
Level: 1 Credits: 15 Study Hours: 150  
School Office:
 
 
 
Programme/Approved Electives for
None
Available as a Free Standing Elective
No
Prerequisites
None
Barred Combinations
None

Description

This level 1 module builds on A-level physics by taking the familiar subject of mechanics, but integrating it into calculus-based mathematics, thus laying the foundation for physics and astrophysics degrees. The module develops skills in applying physical principles and mathematical techniques to physical and astrophysical situations, and to laboratory based experiments.
Aims
To provide an understanding of mechanics, gravity and special relativity, and to develop the use of mathematics to solve physical problems. To develop the transferable, practical and computational skills that are required by the practising physicist or astrophysicist.
Intended Learning Outcomes
Use of mathematics (including vectors and complex numbers) as the language of physics, and its use in solving physical and astrophysical problems, will be achieved by assessments

Understand basic concepts in classical mechanics and Newtonian gravity, and the principles of special relativity. Demonstration of this understanding by solving physical problems, particularly in astrophysical situations, will be achieved by assessments.

Understanding of mathematical techniques necessary for application to physics, will be achieved by assessments.

Perform practical work and keep accurate accounts of it, including professionally maintained records of purpose, methodology, and results. Communicate the process and results of practical work in formal, written presentations. Enter, manipulate, and present data with the aid of computer tools, will be achieved by assessments.
Study hours
Lectures 24h
Problem classes 6h
Problem sheets 18h
Examination 2h
Maths support classes 5h
Maths problem classes 6h
Maths class test/unseen examination 1h
Laboratory sessions 18h
Laboratory reports 12h
Directed reading/independent study 58h
Description of Module Assessment
001: 2 Hour Unseen Exam weighted 40% (min pass mark of 40)
Two hour unseen written examination
Exam paper has three sections: Section A - 16 multiple choice questions with a total mark of 16/100; Section B - 8 short questions with a total mark of 24/100; Section C - Choice of two out of four long questions with a total mark of 60/100. Rubric advice to the students is to allocate the time for section A, B and C in proportion to the marks allocated.
002: Class Test weighted 20% (min pass mark of 40)
One hour unseen Mathematics examination
003: Laboratory Assessment weighted 20% (min pass mark of 40)
Laboratory and Computing Sessions
Continuous assessment of a laboratory diary containing several experiments (weight 30%). Assessment of a formal lab report (weight 60%). Assessment of a computer programming exercises (weight 10%).
004: Problem Sheets weighted 10%
Problem sheets
Three assessed problem sheets.
005: Tutorial weighted 10%
Problem Classes
Tutor-moderated classes in which students complete assigned problems on Maths, Mechanics, Gravity and Relativity, with assistance given as necessary. Assessment is based on weekly attendance and engagement.
Version: (1.06B) Updated: 03/Mar/2013

This document is the definitive current source of information about this module and supersedes any other information.