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Physics - International Foundation

Key information

  • Module code:

    0CCY1015

  • Semester:

      Full Year

  • Credit value:

    30

Module description

This module will provide you with an in-depth introduction to major physics topics required for successful undergraduate study. The module is delivered through a combination of theoretical lectures, problem-solving tutorials and laboratory based practicals. These will provide you with a thorough introduction to the key subject areas of basic mechanics, waves, atomic and nuclear physics, the structure of matter, thermal physics and electromagnetism. You will be supported in manipulating your knowledge of key concepts so that you are able to apply them and discuss them in familiar contexts.

Assessment details

Coursework 50%; Final exam 50%

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, you will:

  • Be equipped with the relevant terminology and understanding of the core concepts above.
  • Have the skills required to progress successfully into undergraduate study in natural and mathematical sciences.
  • Have the practical skills required to do simple laboratory experiments.
  • Be able to interpret the data from those experiments in the context of relevant theories.

Teaching pattern

During this module, you will cover key issues in the following areas:

  • Introduction: SI units; dimensional analysis; coordinate systems; scalars and vectors.
  • Mechanics: displacement, velocity and acceleration; Newton’s laws of motion; weight; normal force; friction; Hooke’s law; static equilibrium; work; conservation of linear momentum; collisions; circular motion; angular velocity, period and frequency; centripetal acceleration and force; simple harmonic motion; gravity.
  • Waves: transverse and longitudinal; wave equation; phase; superposition and interference; diffraction; sound waves; intensity and intensity level; Doppler effect; stationary waves; nodes and antinodes; electromagnetic waves and spectrum; law of reflection; concave and convex mirrors; refraction; refractive index; Snell’s law; convex and concave lenses.
  • Atomic and nuclear physics: atomic energy levels; periodic table; protons, neutrons and isotopes; radioactivity;
  • Structure of matter: phases of matter: solids, liquids, gases and plasmas; crystals; density; pressure; stress and strain; Young’s modulus; hysteresis; pressure within a fluid; Pascal’s principle; Archimedes’ principle and buoyancy; equation of continuity.
  • Thermal physics: temperature; thermal expansion; heat; thermal equilibrium; specific heat; phase changes; latent heat; calorimetry; ideal gas law; gas laws; conduction, convection and radiation; blackbody radiation.
  • Electromagnetism: electric charge; Coulomb’s law; electric field/field lines; electric flux; Gauss’s law; electric potential; capacitors; parallel plate capacitor; direct current; conductors and semiconductors; drift velocity; Ohm’s law; resistors; Kirchhoff’s laws; electrical power; magnetism; magnetic field/field lines; force on moving charge; Ampère’s law and applications; solenoids; magnetic flux; magnetic induction; Faraday’s law; Lenz’s law; inductance; energy stored by inductor; transformers; alternating current.

Strong emphasis is placed on rigorous mathematical treatment; it is therefore essential that you have a good basic background in algebra, trigonometry and geometry.

Suggested reading list

Textbooks for module

During your course, you will be required to do a lot of reading. It is not necessary to purchase all books, but you should try and ensure you have access to some of the following:

Required textbook Recommended textbook
James S. Walker “Physics” (International Edition) 3rd Edition, Pearson Education International (2007)
ISBN-13: 978-0132270199, ISBN-10: 0132270196
K. Johnson, S. Hewett, S. Holt, J. Miller, “Advanced Physics for you”, Nelson Thornes Ltd.
[ISBN 0 7487 5296 X ]
James S. Walker "Physics", Peason Education International (3rd or 4th edition)
ISBN: 978-0-321-61111-6 (4th edition)
 

Department


Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.