Module Catalogues

Physics

Module Title Physics
Module Level Level 0
Module Credits 5.00

Aims and Fit of Module

To appreciate the importance of simplification of complex physical phenomena, the establishment of ideal model, and its extension to a more realistic description of nature.  
To train the students' ability to think logically and independently and to acquire the skills of problem solving.
To enhance student understanding how the real physics world works and inspire students to creatively explore hypotheses through experimentation.
To provide an experimental foundation for the theoretical concepts introduced in the lectures.
To familiarize students with the experimental apparatus, the scientific method and tools of experimental data analysis.

Learning outcomes

A. demonstrate an understanding of core knowledge in classical physics, including the major premises of classical mechanics and electromagnetism
B. develop a familiarity with the experimental verification of our theoretical laws, and an ability to apply the theoretical framework to describe and predict the motions of bodies;
C. describe the ways in which various concepts in electromagnetism come into play in particular situations;
D. represent these electromagnetic phenomena and fields mathematically in those situations;
E. use the scientific method to come to understand the enormous variety of mechanical and electromagnetic phenomena in terms of a few relatively simple laws.

Method of teaching and learning

Students will be expected to attend six hours lectures per week.
Students will be required to attend all scheduled sessions of the physics lab section. In addition, students will be expected to research each topic before coming to lab class. The pre-lab handout will give some background for study, and will include a few specific questions. Moreover, for each lab, students will be required to submit a formal lab report.