Electromagnetism and Thermodynamics unit (KYA212)

Hobart, Online

Introduction

This unit introduces you to the concepts of modern classical electromagnetic theory based on Maxwell's Equations, starting from the basic observational phenomena of electrostatics and magnetostatics, and working through the invention of classical fields and the application of vector calculus to physical systems, ending with the identification of light as electromagnetic radiation. The thermal physics part of the unit shows the results of the application of statistical principles to large systems of particles and gives you the skills and knowledge to evaluate systems in terms of their energy, heat, and entropy. These two topics build from the material in first-semester, second-year physics and represent the culmination of classical physics, laying the groundwork for future learning in modern physics. Applications of the principles discussed in KYA212 are drawn from nature, scientific & industrial processes, and consumer goods. Laboratory sessions involve individual experiments in a wide range of physical phenomena and enable the acquisition of practical skills in experimental technique and data analysis.

Summary

Unit name	Electromagnetism and Thermodynamics
Unit code	KYA212
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences
Discipline	Physics
Coordinator	Doctor Karelle Siellez
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Intermediate

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Hobart	Semester 2
Online	Semester 2

Note

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Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 2	5/7/2026	27/7/2026	30/8/2026	24/10/2026

* 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 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Recognise and apply the fundamental principles of classical electromagnetism in the context of both natural processes and the function of modern technology.
• Recognise and apply the foundations of classical thermodynamics as applied to closed and open systems in the laboratory and the natural world.
• Solve problems in electromagnetism and thermodynamics at an intermediate level with appropriate mathematical tools.
• Perform experiments to test hypotheses in electrodynamics and thermodynamics and interpret the results
• Communicate scientific ideas and experimental results.

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	$1,192.00	$1,192.00	not applicable	$3,575.00

• Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
• HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility³
• FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility⁴

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 UniConnect 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

((KYA101 AND KYA102) OR (ENG107 AND ENG108)) AND (KMA152 AND KMA154)

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	3 50-minute face-to-face workshops per week, 1 50-minute tutorial per week, and 1 3-hour lab meeting per week.
Assessment	Test 1 (10%)|Test 2 (10%)|Assignments (20%)|Experimental reports (20%)|Examination (40%)
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.

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