The concepts of physics can be used to help understand many systems and processes in living organisms and the environment. For example, the physics of momentum and energy help us to understand the effects of collisions and impacts; the physics of heat and energy helps us to understand how changes in temperature affect both our bodies and the world around us; the physics of light helps us understand how we see. In addition, physics has provided us with ideas and technologies which have revolutionized medicine and studies of biology and the environment, including techniques such as carbon dating, ultrasound, PET scans and more.
This course is intended to provide non-physics students in the Colleges of Science (particularly those interested in biology and medical science) and students in the other Colleges with an introduction to the fundamental concepts of physics in the context of biological, medical and environmental examples. Topics covered may include: the relationship between force and energy, the physics of impact and stress, the physics of blood flow and breathing, hearing and seeing, radiation, medical imaging and nuclear power.
This course includes a self-directed experimental group project.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
1. analyse physical situations and problems using the language and approaches of physics
2. obtain quantitative answers to basic theoretical problems
3. design and perform experimental measurements to answer particular questions about the physical properties of a system
4. evaluate the limitations of particular experimental approaches in specific situations
5. work constructively in small groups to solve theoretical and experimental problems
6. communicate effectively about physics with their peers.
Other Information
This course may be taken after successful completion of either PHYS1001 or PHYS1101, but may also be taken without either.Indicative Assessment
Assessment will be based on:
- Web-based questions (10%; LO 1,2)
- Assignments (10%; LO 1, 2, 5, 6)
- In-class tests (10%, LO 1,2)
- Formal lab program (15%; LO 3,4)
- Small-group project (15%; LO 3-6)
- Final exam (40%; LO 1, 2)
In response to COVID-19: Please note that Semester 2 Class Summary information (available under the classes tab) is as up to date as possible. Changes to Class Summaries not captured by this publication will be available to enrolled students via Wattle.
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
(Per week)
- Online pencast-style videos and associated questions, equivalent to 3 lecture hours.
- One 2-hour workshop, comprising group-based problem solving and occasional in-class tests
- One 3-hour laboratory
- 4-5 assignments throughout semester and individual study time
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
If you are a domestic graduate coursework or international student you will be required to pay tuition fees. Tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 2
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are an undergraduate student and have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). You can find your student contribution amount for each course at Fees. Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2020 | $4050 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2020 | $5760 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
Second Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8852 | 27 Jul 2020 | 03 Aug 2020 | 31 Aug 2020 | 30 Oct 2020 | In Person | View |