Physics (PHYS) 201

Overview

PHYS 201 is a junior, algebra-based course that provides an introduction to simple harmonic motion, heat and elementary thermodynamics, and electrical theory. PHYS 201 combined with either PHYS 200 or PHYS 202 gives the equivalent of one year in introductory physics able to be matched to offerings at other institutions.

Outline

Theory Section:

1. Elasticity and Fracture
2. Simple Harmonic Motion
3. Heat and Kinetic Theory
4. Thermodynamics
5. Electrostatics
6. Circuit Theory

Experimental Section:

1. The Simple Pendulum
2. Thermal Expansion of Water
3. Charle's Law
4. Specific Heat and Heat of Fusion
5. Ohm's Law
6. Charging and Discharging of a Capacitors

Lab Component

A compulsory lab component requires that students perform labs in a place of their choice using lab kit borrowed from Athabasca University Library, and some household items. Lab evaluation is based on written reports about the experiments performed.

Evaluation

To receive credit for PHYS 201, you must achieve a course composite grade of at least “D” (50 percent) and a grade of at least 50 percent on the final examination. You must also get a total lab mark of at least a 50 percent to pass the course. The weighting of the composite grade is as follows:

To learn more about assignments and examinations, please refer to Athabasca University's online Calendar.