Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description
Engineering mechanics is the study of how physical systems behave under applied forces and moments. In this unit students are introduced to the fundamental tools and techniques used to analyse a range of 2D engineering mechanics problems. Topics include the relationship between displacement, velocity and acceleration, coordinate systems, forces and moments, free body diagrams, static equilibrium, and momentum and energy methods. Students will also be exposed to causes of structural failure and how failure can affect people and the environment.

Note: MATH1011 Multivariable Calculus may be taken at the same time as ENSC2004 Engineering Mechanics, however, it is strongly recommended that students complete MATH1011 before taking ENSC2004.
Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 2 core unit in the Automation and Robotics Engineering; Biomedical Engineering; Civil Engineering; Electrical and Electronic Engineering; Environmental Engineering; Mechanical Engineering; Mining Engineering major sequences
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) apply a range of techniques to determine the kinematics of particles moving in the plane and simple rigid bodies undergoing fixed axis rotation; (2) apply the principle of static equilibrium to rigid bodies and 2D structures to determine external and internal forces and moments; (3) apply momentum and energy methods to determine the dynamics of particles moving in the plane and simple rigid bodies undergoing fixed axis rotation; (4) discuss the causes and impact of failure of engineering structures on people and the environment; and (5) communicate working clearly and concisely using standard engineering processes and conventions.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) practical class and quizzes ; (2) group laboratory reports; and (3) examinations. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Paul Stanwix (S1) and Dr James Doherty (S2)
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Math Specialist ATAR
or MATH1722 Mathematics Foundations: Specialist
and
Physics ATAR
or PHYS1030 Physics Bridging Unit
Co-requisites
MATH1011 Multivariable Calculus
or MATX1011 Multivariable Calculus
Incompatibility
ENSC2001 Motion
and ENSC1002 Material Behaviour from Atoms to Bridges
Advisable prior study
MATH1011 Multivariable Calculus
and PHYS1001 Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Contact hours
2 hours of lectures each week
2 hour practical problem solving class each week
2 hour laboratory for 6 weeks through semester
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.