PHS1001: Foundation physics
Faculty of Science
![Foundation physics](/images/units/PHS1001.webp)
Check the Handbook for the latest unit information.
Overview
The unit introduces fundamental principles of Newtonian mechanics, electricity and magnetism, waves and oscillations, and quantum physics. The unit explores these concepts in the context of current technology in areas such as transportation and communication. You will also discover how these ideas link to current research in Physics. The unit further introduces the concepts of experimental design, measurement, and analysis that form the basis of the evidence-based approach that is the foundation of scientific discoveries and theories.
Assessment
1 - Tests/Assignments - 35% 2 - Experimental work - 25% Hurdle type: Threshold Hurdle description: Where you fail the hurdle but would have otherwise achieved a mark of 45 or above you will be awarded a mark of 45 and an NH (hurdle fail) for the unit. Where you fail the hurdle and would also have failed the unit with a mark of 44 or below, you will be awarded your mark and an N grade for the unit. 3 - Examination (2 hours and 10 minutes) - 40%
Workload
The workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours spread across the semester (roughly 12 hours per week) - approximately an even mixture of attendance at scheduled activities and self-scheduled study time. Learning activities comprise a mixture of instructor directed, peer directed and self-directed learning, which includes face-to-face and online engagement.