Physics IA

Undergraduate | 2026

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Area/Catalogue
PHYS 1019
Course ID icon
Course ID
207846
Level of study
Level of study
Undergraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course level icon
Course level
1
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Inbound study abroad and exchange
Inbound study abroad and exchange
The fee you pay will depend on the number and type of courses you study.
No
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
No
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
No
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Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

Course overview

This calculus-based course is the foundation for a major in physics, and also provides a quantitative understanding of physics concepts applicable in biological and geological sciences, and in Engineering. Measurement and uncertainties. Particle mechanics: Newton's law of motion, gravitation, work, energy, conservative forces, momentum, collisions. Thermal physics: heat, temperature, internal energy, kinetic theory of gases, thermodynamic processes. Electricity and magnetism: charge and current, electric field, Ohm's Law, DC circuits, Coulomb and Gauss' laws, electrostatics, capacitance, magnetic field, Ampere and Faraday's laws, inductance, LC circuits. Practical problem solving.

Course learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate a knowledge of the physical principals that describe mechanics of point particles, thermal physics, electricity and magnetism
  • apply physical principals to familiar and unfamiliar situations in the world we live in
  • use the methods of algebra and calculus to make quantitative and qualitative predictions about the behaviour of physical systems while associating the correct unit with every physical quantity they use
  • assess the reasonableness of a solution to a problem in qualitative terms
  • make decisions about the measurements needed to achieve an experimental objective
  • make appropriate use of standard measurement techniques and accurately record observations while identifying random and systematic uncertainties in experiments
  • analyse measurements to determine quantitative results and their uncertainties and draw non trivial conclusions from experimental results
  • use a variety of sources to locate and synthesise relevant information
  • work cooperatively in a team to complete a task in a limited time
  • confidently communicate results about the physical world both orally and in writing.

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A