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PHYS501 Electromagnetic Interactions and Electric Power

10 cp
Prerequisites Nil
Teaching Organisation A combination of lectures, tutorials, demonstrations and laboratory-based experiences. Issues and strategies relating to the teaching of the topics at high school level will also be considered.

This unit develops an understanding of electric and magnetic fields and forces, and examines electricity as a source of useful energy. The generation and distribution of electrical power and its safe and efficient use in the home are considered. This involves study of the operating principles and characteristics of AC and DC motors, AC and DC generators and transformers, as well as characteristics of domestic electrical circuits, appliances and safety devices. The behaviour of electromagnetic fields and forces in devices such as cathode ray tubes are explored. In addition, modern applications of semiconductors and superconductors are examined. The understanding of the principles involved is developed by integrating extensive problem solving and practical exercises. Integrated into this unit are relevant aspects of the historical development of principal concepts and technologies, the nature and practice of physics, its applications and uses and implications for society and the environment and current issues, research and developments in Physics.

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