To introduce the student to general wave motion, optics and acoustics and to provide the student with a general introduction to special relativity and to atomic and nuclear physics.

Oscillations and simple harmonic motion: transverse and longitudinal waves, superposition, speed, reflection, harmonic waves. Sound: sound waves, sound intensity, Doppler effect. Light: EM Spectrum, Sources of light, Geometrical optics; reflection, refraction, dispersion, achromatic optics; Physical optics; interference, diffraction, diffraction gratings, polarisation; Optical systems; the microscope, the telescope, the eye. Special Relativity: Einstein's Postulates, time dilation, length contraction, the Lorentz Transformation, relativistic momentum and energy conservation. Atom: Classical models, Planck's quantum hypothesis, the Bohr atom, The photoelectric effect; quantized energy; the de Broglie wavelength.The nucleus: nucleons; isotopes; nuclear structure; binding energy. Radiation: X rays, alpa, beta and gamma radiation, the law of radioactive decay. fission and fusion; nuclear reactors. Detection, dosage.

Discuss the physical processes that underlie wave motion, optics, acoustics, special relativity and atomic and nuclear physics. Describe the physical basis and experimental observations of wave motion, optics, acoustics, special relativity and atomic and nuclear physics. Derive relevant equations describing wave motion, optics, acoustics, special relativity and atomic and nuclear physics from basic laws and principles. Solve numerical problems, from information provided, on the topics covered.

Discuss the importance of wave motion, optics, acoustics, special relativity and atomic and nuclear physics in applied physics.

Perform experiments requiring precise measurement. Use mechanical, optical, acoustical and electronic apparatus for observation and measurement.

Students will learn through interactive lecture, laboratory, experiential tutorial and home work, short projects, learing center.