At the end of this module student will be able to use Newton's laws
Course Information
Course Name: Classical Mechanics
Course Code: PHY 1101
Programme: Bachelor of Education with Honours in Mathematics and Physics
Academic Year: 2024–2025
Course Lecturer:
Credits: 10
Level/Semester: Year I, Trimestre I
Delivery Mode: Face-to-face lectures, problem-solving tutorials, laboratory demonstrations, practical experiments, group discussions, seminars, assignments, and Moodle-supported learning.
Welcome Message
Welcome to Classical Mechanics.
This course introduces students to the fundamental principles governing the motion of bodies and the forces acting upon them. As one of the foundational branches of physics, Classical Mechanics provides the basis for understanding a wide range of physical phenomena encountered in science, engineering, and everyday life.
Throughout the course, students will explore concepts such as kinematics, Newton's laws of motion, work and energy, momentum, rotational motion, gravitation, and oscillatory motion. The course equips future mathematics and physics educators with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for teaching mechanics effectively.
Course Overview
The Classical Mechanics course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the laws governing the motion of particles and rigid bodies. It examines the relationships between force, motion, energy, and momentum using mathematical models and experimental observations.
Students will study one-dimensional and two-dimensional motion, Newtonian mechanics, work-energy principles, conservation laws, circular and rotational motion, gravitation, simple harmonic motion, and mechanical systems. The course emphasizes both conceptual understanding and quantitative problem-solving.
Laboratory experiments and demonstrations complement theoretical lessons by allowing students to verify physical laws, collect and analyze experimental data, and develop scientific investigation skills.
By the end of the course, students will be able to apply the principles of classical mechanics to solve practical and theoretical problems encountered in physics and related disciplines.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the course, students should be able to:
- Understand the fundamental concepts of classical mechanics.
- Describe different types of motion using kinematic equations.
- Apply Newton's laws of motion to physical systems.
- Analyze forces acting on particles and rigid bodies.
- Explain the principles of work, energy, and power.
- Apply the laws of conservation of energy and momentum.
- Analyze circular and rotational motion.
- Explain universal gravitation and planetary motion.
- Investigate oscillatory motion and simple harmonic motion.
- Develop practical and analytical problem-solving skills in mechanics.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Explain the fundamental principles of classical mechanics.
- Solve problems involving linear and rotational motion.
- Apply Newton's laws to analyze physical systems.
- Calculate work, energy, momentum, and power in various situations.
- Interpret motion using graphs, equations, and vector analysis.
- Analyze gravitational interactions and orbital motion.
- Explain the behavior of oscillatory systems.
- Conduct laboratory experiments and analyze mechanical data.
- Apply mathematical techniques in solving mechanics problems.
- Demonstrate scientific reasoning and experimental competence.
Learning Resources
- Lecturer's notes and presentations
- Classical Mechanics textbooks
- University Physics reference books
- Laboratory manuals
- Scientific calculators
- Physics simulation software
- Experimental apparatus for mechanics
- Academic journals in Physics Education
- Open educational resources and multimedia tutorials
- Moodle learning materials
Learning Activities
- Interactive lectures
- Problem-solving tutorials
- Laboratory experiments
- Demonstrations of mechanical systems
- Group discussions
- Numerical exercises
- Student presentations
- Individual and group assignments
- Research-based learning activities
- Moodle-based learning activities
Assessment Methods
- Assignment: 10 Marks
- Continuous Assessment Test (CAT): 10 Marks
- Mid-Term Examination: 40 Marks
- Final Examination: 40 Marks
Course Duration
15 Weeks
- Teacher: SIWEGUSA Augustin
Modern Physics is a branch of physics that deals with the post-Newtonian concepts of physics developed in the 20th century and beyond. This course introduces students to revolutionary ideas and experimental findings that led to the development of quantum mechanics and relativity, as well as their applications to atomic, nuclear, and particle physics. It provides a bridge between classical and contemporary physics, emphasizing conceptual understanding and mathematical formulation.
Objectives:
- Understand the limitations of classical physics and the need for modern physics.
- Explain the fundamental principles of special relativity.
- Describe the dual nature of matter and radiation.
- Understand the basic concepts of quantum mechanics.
- Analyze the structure of atoms and atomic models.
- Explain the principles of nuclear and particle physics.
- Apply modern physics concepts to real-world problems and technology.
Learning Outcomes:
- Apply Einstein’s theory of special relativity to time, length, and mass.
- Describe photoelectric effect, Compton scattering, and blackbody radiation.
- Understand wave-particle duality and perform basic quantum mechanical calculations.
- Solve problems involving the Bohr model and hydrogen atom spectra.
- Explain nuclear reactions, fission, and fusion processes.
- Identify fundamental particles and forces in the Standard Model.
- Relate modern physics concepts to technologies such as lasers, semiconductors, and nuclear energy.
Course Code: PHY 2303
Credits: 10
Academic Year 2024-2025
Lecturer: Augustin UMUKOZI
- Teacher: content creator
The mathematics course introduces core mathematical concepts and techniques designed to build computational fluency and conceptual understanding. Students learn to model situations mathematically, analyze patterns, and use logical reasoning to draw conclusions. Through a mix of theoretical study, practical exercises, and problem-solving activities, the course prepares learners for advanced mathematical study and for applying mathematics in academic, professional, and everyday situations.
Objectives
- Develop foundational mathematical skills in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
- Apply mathematical reasoning to solve structured and open-ended problems.
- Recognize and analyze patterns using algebraic and geometric methods.
- Use mathematical models to represent real-world situations.
- Communicate mathematical thinking clearly through written and verbal explanations.
- Apply appropriate tools and technology, such as calculators or software, to support problem-solving.
- Build confidence and persistence in tackling complex mathematical tasks.
Learning Outcomes
- Perform calculations using numbers, variables, and equations with accuracy and efficiency.
- Interpret and create mathematical representations, including tables, graphs, and algebraic expressions.
- Solve equations and inequalities, and analyze functions and their behaviors.
- Apply geometric principles to measure, compare, and understand shapes, angles, and spatial relationships.
- Analyze and interpret data, calculate statistical measures, and draw conclusions from datasets.
- Use logical reasoning to justify solutions and explain mathematical processes.
- Apply mathematics to real-life contexts, such as finance, measurement, and scientific applications.
Academic Year 2025-2026
- Teacher: content creator