First Year Physics BSc Overview

Classical Mechanics
- Study of motion, forces, and energies.
- Key concepts: Newton's laws, kinematics, dynamics, work, energy, momentum, circular motion, and gravitation.
Electromagnetism
- Basics of electric charges, forces, and fields.
- Key topics: Coulomb's law, electric field lines, Gauss's law, magnetic fields, Faraday's law of induction, and electromagnetic waves.
Thermodynamics
- Principles governing heat, energy, and work.
- Key laws: Zeroth, First, Second, and Third laws of thermodynamics.
- Concepts of entropy, heat engines, and thermodynamic processes.
Waves and Oscillations
- Study of mechanical waves, sound, and oscillatory motion.
- Key topics: wave properties, wave equations, resonance, harmonic motion, and Doppler effect.
Quantum Mechanics Introduction
- Basics of quantum theory and its implications.
- Concepts of quantization, wave-particle duality, and uncertainty principle.

Calculus
- Differential and integral calculus applications in physics.
- Understanding limits, functions, derivatives, and integrals.
Linear Algebra
- Matrix operations, eigenvalues, and eigenvectors.
- Applications in quantum mechanics and systems of equations.
Statistics and Probability
- Basics of statistical methods and probability theory.
- Applications in data analysis and experimental physics.

Experiments to reinforce theoretical concepts.
Key skills: data collection, error analysis, and scientific reporting.
Common experiments: projectile motion, electrical circuits, and thermodynamic processes.

Problem-Solving
- Analytical thinking and applying theories to solve physics problems.
Programming
- Introduction to computational tools and programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for simulations and data analysis.
Communication
- Skills in presenting scientific concepts and findings, both written and verbally.

Importance of solidifying foundational knowledge.
Opportunities for specialization in later years, such as astrophysics, condensed matter physics, or biophysics.

Classical Mechanics: Focuses on motion, forces, and energies; encompasses Newton's laws, kinematics, dynamics, work, energy, momentum, circular motion, and universal gravitation.
Electromagnetism: Covers electric charges and their interactions; includes Coulomb's law, electric field lines, Gauss's law, magnetic fields, Faraday's law of induction, and properties of electromagnetic waves.
Thermodynamics: Examines heat and energy transfer; consists of Zeroth, First, Second, and Third laws of thermodynamics, along with concepts of entropy, heat engines, and thermodynamic processes.
Waves and Oscillations: Studies mechanical waves and sound; key aspects are wave properties, equations, resonance, harmonic motion, and the Doppler effect.
Quantum Mechanics Introduction: Introduces quantum theory; explores fundamental concepts including quantization, wave-particle duality, and the uncertainty principle.

Calculus: Essential for physics, involving differential and integral calculus; understanding limits, functions, derivatives, and integrals is critical.
Linear Algebra: Involves matrix operations, eigenvalues, and eigenvectors; vital for applications in quantum mechanics and solving systems of equations.
Statistics and Probability: Introduces statistical methods and probability theory; used extensively in data analysis and experimental physics.

Engages students in experiments that reinforce theoretical principles; key skills developed include data collection, error analysis, and scientific reporting.
Common experiments include projectile motion, electrical circuit analysis, and the study of thermodynamic processes.

Problem-Solving: Enhances analytical thinking; students apply theories to diverse physics problems to cultivate problem-solving expertise.
Programming: Offers an introduction to computational tools such as Python and MATLAB for data analysis and simulations in physics contexts.
Communication: Develops skills to effectively present scientific concepts and findings, both in written formats and verbally.

Combines lectures, tutorials, and practical lab sessions; assessments include exams, lab reports, and coursework to measure understanding and application.

Emphasizes the significance of building a robust foundational knowledge in physics; opens prospects for specialization in advanced areas like astrophysics, condensed matter physics, or biophysics.

Suggests recommended textbooks and online resources to enhance study; encourages participation in study groups and physics societies for collaborative learning and peer support.