This core third year physics course develops the theoretical aspects of physics in the areas of classical mechanics, quantum mechanics, and special relativity. It emphasizes the methods and skills required for solving complex, realistic problems in theoretical physics.
The least action formulation of classical mechanics is developed and related to quantum mechanics. Quantum mechanics focuses on: approximate methods, symmetries, and angular momentum. Special relativity is developed using a geometrical approach, leading to a relativistic treatment of electromagnetism. This course is a prerequisite for PHYS3002 and PHYS3031. It is required for the theoretical physics major, and is recommended for those intending to do the honours year in Physics.
Honours Pathway Option
Students taking this option will complete an assignment comprising 15% of the total assessment. This replaces that portion of the exam weighting.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
On satisfying the requirements for this course students will:
1. Have an advanced understanding of classical mechanics, quantum mechanics and special relativity.
2. Understand the relationships between these different areas of physics.
3. Be able to apply these principles to the solution of problems, including complex problems.
4. Have good computational skills and be able to apply them to solving problems.
Indicative Assessment
Assessment consists of:
- Homework assignments (36%; LO 1-4)
- Projects (20%; LO 1-4)
- Exam (44%; LO 1-3)
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
One three hour workshop and a tutorial per week (with online lecture material).
Requisite and Incompatibility
Assumed Knowledge
In addition, it is expected that students will have successfully completed PHYS2017 and PHYS2020. However, students taking a combined program who have not studied all of these courses should consult with the Academic Contact to determine whether their prior studies in physics are sufficient.
Majors
Specialisations
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
If you are a domestic graduate coursework or international student you will be required to pay tuition fees. Students continuing in their current program of study will have their tuition fees indexed annually from the year in which you commenced your program. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 2
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are an undergraduate student and have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). You can find your student contribution amount for each course at Fees. Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1994-2003 | $1650 | |
| 2014 | $2946 | |
| 2013 | $2946 | |
| 2012 | $2946 | |
| 2011 | $2946 | |
| 2010 | $2916 | |
| 2009 | $2916 | |
| 2008 | $2916 | |
| 2007 | $2520 | |
| 2006 | $2520 | |
| 2005 | $2298 | |
| 2004 | $1926 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 1994-2003 | $3390 |
| 2014 | $3762 |
| 2013 | $3756 |
| 2012 | $3756 |
| 2011 | $3756 |
| 2010 | $3750 |
| 2009 | $3618 |
| 2008 | $3618 |
| 2007 | $3618 |
| 2006 | $3618 |
| 2005 | $3450 |
| 2004 | $3450 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
First Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3035 | 17 Feb 2014 | 07 Mar 2014 | 31 Mar 2014 | 30 May 2014 | In Person | N/A |
