Physics is an introduction to classical mechanics and selected topics of modern physics. The course goals include presentation and understanding of fundamental physical laws and basic principles as well as methods of applying them to practical problems.  It aims to the development of a feel for the scientific method and understanding of problem solving techniques. Overall the course intends to provide the necessary knowledge and tools for the subsequent studies. 

Description of the Course

Theory: Kinematics, forces and equilibrium, collisions and conservation laws, work and potential energy, vibrational motion, rigid bodies and rotational dynamics, mechanical waves. Selected topics of quantum physics: Photoelectric effect, Compton effect, black body radiation.

Laboratory: Basic laboratory experiments supporting theoretical principles presented in the lecture section; experimental design, data collection and analysis, preparation of lab reports. 

Expected Course Outcome

Upon successful completion of this course the student will be able to: 

• Think critically and use appropriate concepts to analyze qualitatively problems or situations involving the fundamental principles of physics
• Use appropriate mathematical techniques and concepts to obtain quantitative solutions to problems in physics.
• Demonstrate basic experimental skills by the practice of setting up, conducting and reporting an experiment.
• Demonstrate basic communication skills by working in groups on laboratory experiments. 

Bibliography

Greek:

 

1. Φυσική Ι – Μηχανική και Σύγχρονη Φυσική, Σ. Κωνσταντινίδης, Ν. Ντρίβας, Λ. Πρελορέντζος, Πανεπιστημιακές Εκδόσεις Αράκυνθος, 2007 

 

English:

1.  University Physics (Vol I). Hugh D. Young.
2. Physics. Halliday, Resnick, Walker.