Foundations of Physics introduces students to the key concepts in physics in the areas of mechanics, electricity and magnetism and waves and optics. It is an algebra-based course suitable for those who wish to undertake some physics but do not have a strong mathematical background.

This course can be taken as a bridging course by students without prior physics background who wish to enrol in Advanced Physics in subsequent years. In exceptional circumstances, with the approval of the Academic Contact, students who achieve a very high grade in Foundations of Physics, PHYS1001, may be admitted to PHYS1201 in semester 2. The requisite level of mathematics is also required.

It is part of the ANU College Foundations Studies program.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Understand the fundamental principles of classical mechanics, electric and magnetic fields, simple electrical circuits, and optics.

2. Be able to apply these principles to the solution of problems and to the conduct of experiments.

3. Have a basic understanding of uncertainty in the context of physics, and how to handle it.

4. Have basic laboratory skills including equipment skills, data gathering, record keeping, data analysis, experiment design, and presentation.

Assessment comprises:

• Laboratory write-ups (30%; LO 2, 3, 4)
• Homework assignments (30%; LO 1, 2, 3)
• Lecture and tutorial activities (10%; LO 1,2,3)
• Final Exam (30%; LO 1, 2, 3)

Three one-hour lectures, the equivalent of 3 laboratory hours and a one-hour tutorial each week.

No previous knowledge of physics is assumed though some background will be useful. Only basic mathematical methods will be employed. This course cannot be taken concurrently with or after successful completion of PHYS1101 or PHYS1201.

R. Chaby and B. Sherwood, Matter and Interactions, 3rd edition. Access to the text is essential. Access to an online eBook version of the text for the duration of the course may be purchased through WebAssign - see Wattle site for details.