Mechanics A

The course is part of the Bachelor's Programme in Physics and the Medical Physicist Programme, and is also offered as a stand-alone course.

This course covers the laws of motion in classical mechanics. Experiments and demonstrations are also conducted in connection with the course. The course consists of three modules.

Modules

1. Mechanics, 6.5 credits
Grading scale: Pass with distinction (VG), Pass (G) and Fail (U)

Subcourse 1 covers basic concepts such as:

• interaction, force
• laws of conservation: momentum, energy and
  angular momentum
• space, time, mass, position, velocity, acceleration
• Newton's laws, the law of gravity, the motion of celestial bodies in the universe, inertial forces in accelerating systems
• static systems
• rigid body rotation

2. Experimental problem-solving, 0.5 credits
Grading scale: Pass (G) and Fail (U)

In this sub-course, a problem-solving-based laboratory exercise is carried out, the results of which are compiled in a report.

3. Demonstrations, 0.5 credits
Grading scale: Pass (G) and Fail (U)

Students deepen their knowledge of the physics involved in a specific experiment, which is then presented orally.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to:

Knowledge and understanding

• understand that experiments play a central role and that knowledge is built up through interaction between observations, models and theories
• be able to describe, explain and predict physical phenomena in nature, everyday life and society

Skills and abilities

• be able to present simple physical problems orally and in writing
• be able to formulate hypotheses and models and perform experiments to verify or revise a hypothesis or model
• be able to use scientific methods and models in physics and solve problems in mechanics
• be able to plan and carry out experiments, and be able to use a computer to collect and analyse measurement data

Judgement and approach

• have developed their ability to analyse social issues from a scientific perspective

Lectures, problem solving sessions, laboratory work and demonstrations.

Compulsory elements with attendance requirements: laboratory work (module 2) and demonstrations and presentations (module 3).

Module 1: Written examination and assignments, 6.5 credits

Module 2: Laboratory report, 0.5 credits

Module 3: Oral presentation, 0.5 credits

The course is graded on a scale of Pass with Distinction (VG), Pass (G) and Fail (U).

To receive a Pass (G) for the entire course, a G is required for all three modules.

To receive a Pass with Distinction (VG) for the entire course, a VG is required for module 1 and a G for modules 2 and 3.

At the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to anonymously fill out a course evaluation. The results will be published on the course website on the University of Gothenburg's learning platform.