Classical Physics 2

Undergraduate | 2026

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Area/Catalogue
PHYS 2004
Course ID icon
Course ID
200524
Level of study
Level of study
Undergraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course level icon
Course level
2
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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.
Yes
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
Yes
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
Yes
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Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

Course overview

This course extends the mechanics learned in Physics IA and Physics IB to more advanced classical and analytical mechanics; it also introduces students to the thermodynamics of interacting systems.

Course learning outcomes

  • State the conservation principles involving momentum, angular momentum and energy and explain that they follow from the fundamental equations of motion;
  • Analyse the dynamics of a range of systems, including those where the concept of impending motion is relevant and those subject to Newtonian gravitational fields and central forces;
  • Analyse the dynamics of particles in rotating non-inertial reference frames using appropriate fictitious forces;
  • Explain the basic concepts of thermodynamics including entropy, and discuss the relevance of entropy to the second law of thermodynamics; perform calculations of entropy changes during thermodynamic processes;
  • Describe the operation of ideal and real heat engines and refrigerators and discuss their efficiency;
  • Choose principles and mathematical methods suitable for the treatment of a given problem;
  • Use the tools, methodologies, language and conventions of physics to test and communicate ideas and explanations

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A