Module Details
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title Dynamics and Relativity
Code PHYS101
Coordinator Professor TG Shears
Physics
Tara.Shears@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2022-23 Level 4 FHEQ First Semester 15

Aims

To introduce the fundamental concepts and principles of classical mechanics at an elementary level. To introduce the postulates of Special Relativity and apply the Lorentz transformations.

Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the laws of classical mechanics and Special Relativity.

(LO2) Understand physical quantities with magnitudes, directions (where applicable), units and uncertainties.

(LO3) Apply the laws of mechanics to statics, linear motion, motion in a plane, rotational motion, and gravitation.

(LO4) Apply the laws of relativity to linear motion.

(LO5) Develop a knowledge and understanding of the analysis of non-relativistic linear and rotational motion and of relativistic linear motion.

(LO6) Develop a knowledge and understanding of the non-relativistic analysis of orbits and gravity.

(S1) Problem solving skills.

(S2) Analytic skills applied to situations involving mechanical systems.

Syllabus
 

Introduction: Force, Newton’s Laws
Centre of Mass, Reference Frames
Resistance of Motion: Friction
Resistance of Motion: Drag
Work, Energy, Power
Momentum: Collisions and Impulse
Rotation: Circular motion
Rotation: Moment of Inertia, Torque
Angular Momentum
Rolling and Precession
Newton’s Law of Gravitation
Satellites, Escape Speed
Kepler’s Laws

Introduction and historical context of special relativity.
Einstein’s solution of the conflict between Newtonian mechanics and constancy of speed of light.
The Lorentz transformations.
Concept of spacetime and Lorentz invariance.
Relativistic energy and momentum.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Lectures delivered on Campus
Description: Lectures
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: = 2 x 1h lectures/week

Teaching Method 2 - Classwork
Description: Problem solving classes delivered on Campus, to learn together with guidance from staff and receive feedback.
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: = 12 x 1-hour workshops

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 24

         12

 36
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 114
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Examination There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :Semester 1  150    70       
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Problem sets from weeks 1-5. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is not an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :1  10    15       
Problem sets from weeks 6-10. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment.  10    15       

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.