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

The content of this unit includes the physical principles underlying mechanics; heat and thermodynamics; waves and optics; electricity and the breakdown of classical physics. The content is explored with reference to a range of applications and physical contexts, and developed and applied through a series of laboratory tasks. Skills in problem identification and mathematical solution are fostered through assignment sheets and practical class activities.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 1 core unit in the Physics; Biomedical Engineering; Chemical Engineering; Civil Engineering; Electrical and Electronic Engineering; Environmental Engineering; Mechanical Engineering; Mining Engineering; Software Engineering major sequences
  • Level 1 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) develop a fundamental understanding of the principles underlying mechanics, heat and thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and the breakdown of classical Physics; (2) apply critical thinking skills in a range of conceptual physical situations; (3) use appropriate mathematical techniques; (4) develop and apply problem identification and mathematical solution skills in a physical context; and (5) develop skills in measurement, experimental technique and quantitative analysis relevant to physics.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) laboratory classes; (2) tests and assignments; and (3) final examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.

To pass this unit, a student must: (a) achieve an overall mark of 50 per cent or higher for the unit; and (b) achieve the requisite requirements(s) or a mark of 50 per cent or greater, whichever is higher and specified in the unit outline, for the laboratory classes component.

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

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Gareth Jay
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Physics ATAR
or PHYS1030 Physics Bridging Unit
and
Mathematics Methods ATAR
or MATH1721 Mathematics Foundations: Methods
or MATX1721 Mathematics Foundations
Co-requisites
MATH1722 Mathematics Foundations: Specialist or equivalent
Incompatibility
Unit(s) PHYS1001 Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Contact hours
labs: 5 x 3 hours
online recorded lectures: 3 x 45 minutes per week
and weekly 2 hour practical classes
Note
If required, students are advised to take bridging units in their first
year of study. Students without Mathematics Specialist ATAR or equivalent or higher take MATH1722. Students without ATAR Physics or equivalent or higher take PHYS1030.
  • 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.