Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student will be able to understand the concepts of basis and related concepts :

  • optics
  • radioactivity
  • modern physics, in a very simplified version

The student will be led to understand the subject in depth, beyond the simple knowledge of laws and concepts.

Goals

The objectives of the course are

  • to provide a solid foundation of knowledge in physics, in areas related to optics, radioactivity and modern physics.

  • to highlight the close links between these areas of physics and other sciences, including the earth sciences.

The student will be led to understand the subject in depth, beyond the simple knowledge of laws and concepts.

Content

This physics course is based on observations, from which lessons are drawn, rigorous reasoning and the deduction of physical laws. These laws are then applied to the explanation of phenomena related to everyday life or to nature.

Table of contents

OPTICS

  • Chapter 1: Light

  • Chapter 2: Optical media and light

  • Chapter 3: Optical instruments.

  • Chapter 4: The wave properties of light - Physical optics.

  • Chapter 5: Corpuscular properties of light - Duality.

NUCLEAR PHYSICS

  • Chapter 6: Nuclear physics: basic concepts.

  • Chapter 7: Physical laws and principles.

  • Chapter 8: Radioactivity and time.

  • Chapter 9: The nature of radiation.

  • Chapter 10: Interactions of radiation with matter.

  • Chapter 11: Applications of radioactivity to dating.


Exercices

Exercise sessions, supervised by assistants, are organized in small groups, enabling students to apply the various theoretical concepts

Teaching methods

Theoretical course

  • The course will take the form of a lecture (slide show and blackboard). The slides presented will be available in advance.

  • Students are invited to ask any questions they may have to the teacher, either between classes or via the course Teams.

Student support

  • Formative assessment tools will be made available to students.

  • Student support will be complemented by Q&A sessions on Teams.

  • Practical sessions (tutorials) are organised.

All these arrangements will be explained in due course.

Assessment method

  • A written examination on theory and exercises (TD) is organised in session.
  • The modalities will be explained in the course.
  • Composition of the final score :
    • 3/4 theory
    • 1/4 TD

Sources, references and any support material

  • All course materials and information are posted on webcampus.
  • Syllabus, slides.
  • The student is required to regularly check the distribution channels related to the course:
    • Teams is used for interactive activities (information, questions/answers, important messages, etc.)
    • Webcampus is used for the deposit of documents (slides, videos, practical exercises, etc.)

Language of instruction

French
Training Block Credits Mandatory
Bachelor in Geography : General 1 3 Yes
Bachelor in Geology 1 3 Yes