Electronics and Electromagnetism
Overview
This unit aims to provide a basic introduction to electronics, electromagnetism, electromagnetic waves, optics and aspects of modern physics (atomic, molecular, nuclear, relativity and quantum physics).
Requisites
Assumed Knowledge
PHY10001 Energy and Motion
01-June-2025
02-November-2025
Learning outcomes
Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:
- Identify the symbols and units for a wide range of physical quantities, and recall their definitions (K1)
- Demonstrate a good understanding of the principles underlying basic physics both verbally and in writing (K1, K2, A2)
- Apply all the above principles to solutions of conceptual and numerical problems in simple systems, and to understand real-world phenomena (K1, K2, S2)
- Safely execute hands-on experiments, collect and analyse experimental data, interpret results and formulate conclusions (K1, K6, S1)
- Use computer simulation to analyse electronic devices, circuits or physical phenomena (K1, K2, S1)
Teaching methods
Hawthorn
| Type | Hours per week | Number of weeks | Total (number of hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-campus Lecture | 2.00 | 12 weeks | 24 |
| On-campus Class | 2.00 | 12 weeks | 24 |
| On-campus Lab | 2.00 | 5 weeks | 10 |
| Unspecified Activities Independent Learning | 6.67 | 12 weeks | 80 |
| Online Learning activities | 1.00 | 12 weeks | 12 |
| TOTAL | 150 |
Assessment
| Type | Task | Weighting | ULO's |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Individual | 10 - 30% | 1,2,3 |
| Examination | Individual | 40 - 60% | 1,2,3 |
| Laboratory Practicals | Individual | 10 - 30% | 1,2,3,4,5 |
| Portfolio | Individual | 10 - 30% | 1,2,3 |
Hurdle
As the minimum requirements of assessment to pass a unit and meet all ULOs to a minimum standard, an undergraduate student must have achieved:
i) An aggregate mark of 50% or more, and ii) Obtain at least 40% of the combined marks for the mid semester test plus the final exam, and iii) Obtain at least 40% of the possible marks for the laboratory hurdle. Students who do not successfully achieve hurdle requirements (ii) and (iii) will receive a maximum of 45% as the total mark for the unit.
Content
- Electronics and Electromagnetism: Coulomb's, Gauss's, Ampere's, Ohm's, Kirchhoff's Faraday's, and Lenz's laws; basic analog DC and AC circuit theory and applications, electromagnetic waves and Maxwell's Equations
- Optics: reflection, refraction, image formation, optical instruments, interference, diffraction
- Modern Physics: atomic, molecular and nuclear physics; relativity and quantum mechanics
Study resources
Reading materials
A list of reading materials and/or required textbooks will be available in the Unit Outline on Canvas.