The module will cover the following:
• Types of waves. Characteristics of a wave: frequency, period, amplitude, wavelength and velocity. Introduction to transverse and longitudinal waves and polarisation.
• Properties of Waves: Qualitative description of the properties of waves; motion, reflection, refraction (Snell's law), dispersion, diffraction, interference, standing waves.
• Sound Waves: Description of sound - loudness, noise, note, pitch, intensity, intensity level. Properties of sound - reflection, refraction, interference (interference pattern produced by two speakers), beats, and resonance in a vibrating wire, including overtones/harmonics. Qualitative treatment of Doppler Effect.
• Electromagnetic (em) Waves: Electromagnetic spectrum. Qualitative treatment of em waves from different parts of the spectrum. Refraction of light - critical angle and optical fibres. Polarisation of light, microwaves and radio waves. Interference. Young's double slit experiment. The Michelson interferometer. Transmission diffraction grating - orders of diffraction, application in spectroscopy.
• Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM): Displacement, velocity and acceleration of a body undergoing SHM Link between SHM and circular motion. Force acting on a body undergoing SHM. Qualitative description of systems displaying SHM. Detailed description of pendulum and mass on a spring. Energy in SHM. General expression for SHM.
• Damping and Forced Oscillations: Qualitative treatment of light, heavy and critical damping. Qualitative discussion of the concepts of natural frequency, resonance and the behaviour of vibratory systems driven by a periodic force.
Private Study: 125
Contact Hours: 25
Total: 150
Not available as an elective module.
• Moodle Quiz 1 (1 hour) – 15%
• Moodle Quiz 2 (1 hour) – 15%
• Examination (2 hours) – 70%
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices. The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of physical laws and principles, and their application to diverse areas of physics (this will include laws of motion, electromagnetism, wave phenomena and the properties of matter), with modules covering the necessary mathematics.
2. Demonstrate an ability to identify relevant principles and laws when dealing with problems, and to make approximations necessary to obtain solutions.
3. Demonstrate an ability to solve problems in physics using appropriate mathematical tools.
4. Demonstrate an ability to use mathematical techniques and analysis to model physical behaviour.
5. Demonstrate an ability to present and interpret information graphically.
6. Demonstrate an ability to make use of appropriate texts, or other learning resources as part of managing their own learning.
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
