PHY 114: First Course in Physics – Study Guide and Syllabus Overview

Introduction to PHY 114

Overview of Physics and Course Structure

Physics is the study of the fundamental principles underlying nature, ranging from sub-atomic particles to the structure of galaxies. This course, PHY 114, provides a calculus-based introduction to classical mechanics, waves, optics, and heat, laying the foundation for advanced studies in physics. The course emphasizes both mathematical analysis and intuitive understanding, requiring consistent effort and active participation.

Course Content and Structure

Main Topics Covered

• Mathematical Background (LS Ch. 1, 2, 3): Essential mathematics for physical sciences, including calculus and vectors.

• Units and Measurements (HRW12: Ch. 1): Understanding physical quantities, SI units, and measurement techniques.

• Waves (HRW12: Ch. 16 & 17): Study of wave phenomena, properties, and sound.

• Geometrical and Physical Optics (HRW12: Ch. 33–36): Exploration of light, lenses, mirrors, interference, and diffraction.

• Heat and Thermodynamics (HRW12: Ch. 18): Introduction to thermal processes and the laws of thermodynamics.

• Kinematics (HRW12: Ch. 2–4): Motion in one, two, and three dimensions, including vectors and vector operations.

• Force and Motion (HRW12: Ch. 5 & 6): Newton’s laws, friction, and circular motion.

• Work, Energy, and Power (HRW12: Ch. 7 & 8): Concepts of work, energy conservation, and power.

• Systems of Particles and Collisions (HRW12: Ch. 9): Linear momentum and collisions.

• Rotational Motion (HRW12: Ch. 10–12): Rotational kinematics, dynamics, and equilibrium.

Additional info: The course does not follow the textbook chapters sequentially; refer to the course outline for the order of topics.

Assessment and Academic Expectations

Assessment Structure

• Continuous Assessment: Includes quizzes, clicker participation, tutorials, class tests, and semester tests.

• Practicals: Compulsory laboratory sessions to develop experimental skills and link theory with observation.

• Final Examination: Covers all theory and problem-solving skills developed during the semester.

Assessment emphasizes clear, logical reasoning, correct use of units, and the ability to solve problems from first principles. Plagiarism and academic dishonesty are strictly prohibited.

Module Outcomes and Prerequisites

Learning Outcomes

• Understand and apply fundamental concepts in classical mechanics, waves, optics, and heat.

• Develop problem-solving skills using calculus and mathematical reasoning.

• Demonstrate proficiency in experimental techniques and data analysis.

Prerequisites: Proficiency in high school mathematics and physics is essential. Concurrent registration in mathematics modules (WTW 114 and WTW 124) is strongly recommended.

Study Materials and Resources

Prescribed Textbooks and Tools

• Mathematics for Physical Science by L. Strauss (LS)

• Fundamentals of Physics: Extended, 12th Edition by Halliday, Resnick, and Walker (HRW12)

• Access to WileyPLUS for e-book and exercises

• Internet-enabled device for online resources and clicker participation

Course Schedule and Notional Hours

Time Allocation

• Total Credits: 16 credits (160 notional hours)

• Weekly Commitment: Approximately 11.5 hours per week, including lectures, tutorials, practicals, and independent study.

Students are expected to prepare before lectures, participate actively, and review material regularly to keep up with the course pace.

Administrative and Support Information

Contact Details and Support Services

• Lecturer, administrator, and student advisor contact information provided for academic support.

• Support services include academic counselling, health services, IT helpdesk, and crisis support.

All course administration, announcements, and resources are managed via ClickUP (university online platform).

Code of Conduct and Anti-Discrimination Policy

Professionalism and Inclusivity

• Respectful communication and adherence to university policies are required.

• The course is committed to inclusivity, anti-discrimination, and supporting all students’ academic success.

Summary Table: Main Physics Topics in PHY 114

Topic	Textbook Reference	Key Concepts
Units and Measurements	HRW12: Ch. 1	SI units, measurement, uncertainty
One- and Multi-Dimensional Kinematics	HRW12: Ch. 2–4	Displacement, velocity, acceleration, vectors
Newton’s Laws and Forces	HRW12: Ch. 5 & 6	Force, friction, circular motion
Work, Energy, and Power	HRW12: Ch. 7 & 8	Work, kinetic and potential energy, conservation
Momentum and Collisions	HRW12: Ch. 9	Linear momentum, impulse, collisions
Rotational Motion and Dynamics	HRW12: Ch. 10–12	Angular velocity, torque, equilibrium
Waves and Sound	HRW12: Ch. 16 & 17	Wave properties, sound, Doppler effect
Optics	HRW12: Ch. 33–36	Reflection, refraction, interference, diffraction
Heat and Thermodynamics	HRW12: Ch. 18	Thermal processes, first law of thermodynamics