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PHYS143: Physics IB
This unit together with PHYS140 Physics IA, provides an overview of physics. This unit includes a broad range of topics suitable for those majoring in any of the other sciences, including mathematics, as well as a core of study for those who are majoring in physics, optical technology or astronomy. This unit begins with further topics in classical physics: the physics of oscillations and wave motion, including sound waves, diffraction and the wave behaviour of light, leading to an introduction to geometrical and physical optics and the operation of some optical instruments. The unit then moves on to look at some of the theories of modern physics that influence the way that we view the natural world, and the fundamental laws that govern it. An introduction is given to molecular kinetic theory and the important universal laws of thermodynamics, the latter valid for everything from the boiling of a kettle to exploding black holes. Einstein's theory of special relativity and its counter-intuitive views on space and time, the uncertain world of quantum physics, and what the latter tells us about the structure of atoms and nuclei, conclude the unit. Regular guided laboratory work enables students to investigate the phenomena discussed in the lectures, using modern techniques in a well equipped laboratory.
| Credit Points: | 3 |
| Contact Hours: | 6 |
| When Offered: | D2 - Day; Offered in the second half-year |
| Staff Contact(s): | Physics staff |
| Prerequisites: |
(HSC Mathematics Band 4 or HSC Mathematics Extension 1 Band E3 or HSC Mathematics Extension 2 or equivalent) or corequisite of (MATH132 or MATH133 or MATH135 or MATH136) |
| Corequisites: | |
| NCCW(s): | PHYS149 |
| Unit Designation(s): | |
| Assessed As: | Graded |
| Offered By: | Department of Physics and Astronomy |
Timetable Information
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