Course Catalogue

Physics I (UESTC) UESTCHN1008

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Engineering
  • Credits: 14
  • Level: Level 1 (SCQF level 7)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

This course introduces foundational physical principles in modern science and engineering. Students explore mechanics (including particle dynamics, rigid body motion; simple harmonic motion and wave motion) and optics (including interference, diffraction and polarization).

Timetable

Course will be delivered continuously in the traditional manner at UESTCHN.

Requirements of Entry

Mandatory Entry Requirements

None

Recommended Entry Requirements

None

Excluded Courses

none

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

Assessment

25% homework coursework, 75% closed-book final exam (2 hours)

Main Assessment In: April/May

Course Aims

This course aims to develop in students a solid foundation in two fundamental areas of modern physics-mechanics and optics-by introducing the important concepts and principles, and allow them to solve basic physical problems in these areas. In addition, the course aims to develop in students an appreciation of the scientific method such as physical model building and the application of mathematical tools.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

■ By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Describe mathematically the motion of particles in three-dimensional space under the influence of forces such as gravity and friction, apply Newton's laws of motion to solve dynamic problems.

■ Explain the concepts of momentum, centre of mass, conservative force, potential energy, kinetic energy and mechanical energy, apply the principles to analyse and evaluate complex systems.

■ Explain the concept of torque and angular momentum, apply these concepts to solve the rotational motion of a rigid body.

■ Analyse simple harmonic motion and waves, understand the energy associated with such motions, know the properties about damped motion and forced oscillation, and describe effects of wave interference and standing waves.

■ Apply the concepts of coherent light to explain the interference in Young's double slit experiment and interference in thin film, apply the principles of optical diffraction to explain 3 typical diffraction phenomena, and understand the nature of polarized light.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions