Courses & Units
Waves and Kinetic Theory KYA211
Introduction
The unit KYA211 Waves and Kinetic Theory is the core physics major course for second year, first semester. It is also suitable for students who wish to study more physics beyond first year but who do not intend to major in the subject. It is particularly useful for students interested in geophysics and atmospheric physics. It provides in-depth understanding of many forms of wave motion and an introduction to concepts in the kinetic theory of gasses. The mathematics of wave motion is taught, including an introduction to the theory and application of Fourier Series.
Waves topics include oscillatory systems, the wave equation for vibrating wires, acoustic waves, electrical waves in coaxial cables or transmission lines, and electromagnetic waves, and Fourier techniques for wave analysis. Kinetic theory topics include molecular models of gases, Maxwell-Boltzmann and related distributions, real gases and gas laws, and applications to transport phenomena (thermal conductivity, diffusion, viscosity), gas flow, and vacuum techniques.
Laboratory sessions consider experimental data manipulation and error analysis as well as practice with equipment to analyze waves, such as cathode ray oscilloscopes.
Summary
| Unit name | Waves and Kinetic Theory |
|---|---|
| Unit code | KYA211 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | College of Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences |
| Discipline | Physics |
| Coordinator | Professor Anya Reading |
| Available as an elective? | Yes |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Intermediate |
Availability
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | On-Campus | Off-Campus | International International | Domestic Domestic |
Key
- On-campus
- Off-Campus
- International students
- Domestic students
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 21/2/2022 | 22/3/2022 | 11/4/2022 | 29/5/2022 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2022 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2022 will be available from the 1st October 2021. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- familiarity with basic terminology and processes in waves and kinetic theory
- understand how oscillations happen, and how they can propagate as waves, including mechanical, electrical, fluid, and radiation applications
- understand how gases behave at the molecular level
Fee Information
| Field of Education | Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 | Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 | Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 | Domestic Full Fee 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 010301 | $1,002.00 | $1,002.00 | not applicable | $2,701.00 |
1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.
If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.
Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.
Requisites
Prerequisites
Admission into a Masters course OR (KYA101 AND KYA102 AND ((KMA152 AND KMA154) OR (JEE103 AND JEE104))Teaching
| Assessment | Test or quiz (14%)|Test or quiz (14%)|Examination - invigilated (centrally) (44%)|Assignment (14%)|Report (14%) |
|---|---|
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
Links | Booktopia textbook finder |
|---|
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.