Module Information
Module Identifier
PH02010
Module Title
Introduction to Oscillations and Waves
Academic Year
2014/2015
Co-ordinator
Semester
Semester 2
Co-Requisite
None
Mutually Exclusive
Not available to students on 3 year BSc (Hons) or 4 year MPhys schemes
Pre-Requisite
GCSE Mathematics and Science or equivalent
Other Staff
Course Delivery
| Delivery Type | Delivery length / details |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 22 Hours - To include lectures and workshops |
Assessment
| Assessment Type | Assessment length / details | Proportion |
|---|---|---|
| Semester Exam | 2 Hours written examination | 80% |
| Semester Assessment | 2 Examples Sheets. | 20% |
| Supplementary Exam | 2 Hours written examination | 100% |
Learning Outcomes
After taking this module students should be able to:
- describe simple harmonic motion and answer elementary problems relating to simple harmonic oscillators
- answer simple problems on wave propagation and effects
- give qualitative descriptions of wave phenomena
Aims
This foundation module gives a basic introduction to simple harmonic motion and wave propagation and properties. It prepares students for further study of the topics at Year 1 undergraduate. (CQFW Level 4)
Brief description
This module aims to provide an understanding of simple oscillatory and wave motions. The syllabus considers simple harmonic motion and its application to physical systems. The discussion of waves covers simple mathematical treatment of wave propagation and effects. Emphasis is placed on developing problem-solving skills in these areas. An introduction is given to wave phenomena including interference and diffraction.
Content
Oscillations:
Periodic motion: simple harmonic motion (SHM)
Graphical and Mathematical representations of SHM
Examples of simple harmonic oscillators
Energy of simple harmonic oscillator
Simple harmonic motion and circular motion
Introduction to damped oscillation, forced oscillation and resonance
Waves:
Definitions of wave parameters
Graphical and mathematical representations of waves
Superposition of waves, Doppler effect standing waves, beats
Introduction to light waves: reflection, refraction, dispersion, interference, diffraction and polarisation
Young's two-slit experiment, diffraction at multiple slits.
Periodic motion: simple harmonic motion (SHM)
Graphical and Mathematical representations of SHM
Examples of simple harmonic oscillators
Energy of simple harmonic oscillator
Simple harmonic motion and circular motion
Introduction to damped oscillation, forced oscillation and resonance
Waves:
Definitions of wave parameters
Graphical and mathematical representations of waves
Superposition of waves, Doppler effect standing waves, beats
Introduction to light waves: reflection, refraction, dispersion, interference, diffraction and polarisation
Young's two-slit experiment, diffraction at multiple slits.
Reading List
Essential ReadingNelkon, Michael. (1995.) Advanced level physics /Michael Nelkon, Philip Parker. 7th edition. Heinemann Primo search
Notes
This module is at CQFW Level 3