Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2020-2021 (archived)

Module MATH1607: Dynamics I

Department: Mathematical Sciences

MATH1607: Dynamics I

Type Open Level 1 Credits 10 Availability Available in 2020/21 Module Cap None. Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • Normally grade A in A-Level Mathematics (or equivalent)

Corequisites

  • Calculus I (MATH 1061) and Linear Algebra I (MATH 1071)

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • Maths for Engineers and Scientists (MATH1551), Single Mathematics A (MATH1561), Single Mathematics B (MATH1571)

Aims

  • An understanding of elementary classical Newtonian dynamics.
  • Ability to formulate and solve basic problems in dynamics.

Content

  • Dynamics Newton's laws, frames of reference.
  • Mass, force, energy, momentum, angular momentum.
  • Sample motions: simple harmonic oscillator.
  • Projectiles.
  • Charged particle in constant electromagnetic field.
  • Orbits.
  • Waves on strings.
  • Wave equation for small amplitude oscillations, separation of variables.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Dynamics: Newtonian Mechanics, frames of reference, Newton's laws.
  • Sample motions.
  • Two body systems.
  • Waves on strings.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • students will have basic mathematical skills in the following areas: Modelling and spatial awareness.
Key Skills:
  • The ability to precisely formulate and solve dynamical problems.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Lectures introduce the basic concepts.
  • Weekly homework problems provide formative assessment to guide students in the correct development of their knowledge and skills. They are also an aid in developing students' awareness of standards required.
  • The examination provides a final assessment of the achievement of the student.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 28 2 in weeks 14,16,18,20, and 3 in weeks 11,12,13,15,17,19 (alternating with Problems Classes) and 2 revision lectures in term 3 1 Hour 28
Tutorials 6 Fortnightly in weeks 12,14,16,18,20 and one in week 21 1 Hour 6
Problems Classes 4 Fortnightly in weeks 14,16,18,20 1 Hour 4
Preparation and Reading 62
Total 100

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination Component Weighting: 90%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Written examination for dynamics 2 hours 100% Yes
Component: Continuous Assessment Component Weighting: 10%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Weekly written or electronic assignments to be assessed and returned. Other assignments are set for self-study and complete solutions are made available to students. Students will have about one week to complete each assignment. Students will have about one week to complete each assignment. 100% Yes

Formative Assessment:


Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University