Course content

A general introduction to Newtonian mechanics including oscillations and mechanical waves, as well as special relativity. Newton's laws. Conservation of energy, momentum, and angular momentum. Mechanical oscillations. Mechanical waves, sound. Gravitation. Special relativity. Experimental methods: Measuring physical quantities, data acquisition, interpretation, and documentation. A few invited lectures introduce the students to a wider field of physics and mathematics.

Learning outcome

The student is expected to:
1. Obtain, through a combined theoretical and experimental approach to the subject, a fundamental understanding of Newtonian mechanics.
2. Learn the definition and the use of key concepts such as energy, momentum, and angular momentum.
3. Learn to construct equations for infinitesimal quantities and solve these by integration.
4. Gain experience in analyzing problems within mechanics with ICT based methods.
5. Learn experimental methods in physics.
6. Obtain basic training in writing an experimental report.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, compulsory laboratory exercises and home exercises. 2/3 of the calculation exercises and all of the laboratory exercises must be fulfilled. A compulsory lab report counts 10% of the final grade. A re-sit examination may be changed from written to oral.

Compulsory assignments

• Calculation exercises
• Laboratory exercises

Recommended previous knowledge

Fysikk 1 and Fysikk 2 in upper secondary school.

Course materials

Suggested literature: Young & Freedman: University Physics. Alternative Norwegian book: Lien & Løvhøiden: Generell fysikk, Bind 1: Mekanikk. Other similar books may also be used.

Credit reductions