Module Catalogue 2025/26

INU0116 : Physics for Engineering

INU0116 : Physics for Engineering

  • Offered for Year: 2025/26
  • Module Leader(s): Dr Tanya Morgan
  • Co-Module Leader: Mr Keith Howlett
  • Lecturer: Dr John Trattles
  • Owning School: INTO Newcastle University
  • Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters

Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.

Semester 1 Credit Value: 10
Semester 2 Credit Value: 10
ECTS Credits: 10.0
European Credit Transfer System
Pre-requisite

Modules you must have done previously to study this module

Pre Requisite Comment

None

Co-Requisite

Modules you need to take at the same time

Co Requisite Comment

None

Aims

To introduce students to key concepts and subject content in physics in order to provide a sound foundation for students subsequently proceeding with degrees in physical sciences and engineering.

Outline Of Syllabus

Vectors and scalars
Statics
Kinematics
Dynamics
Circular motion
Basic electricity, DC circuits
Magnetic fields, electromagnetism; electric fields, electromagnetic induction
Capacitance and capacitors
Alternating current
Static Fluids
States of matter, elasticity, springs
Temperature and thermal physics

Learning Outcomes

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

On completion of this unit students should be able to:
•       Apply the main ideas and methods of physics to solve problems.
•       Describe phenomena in terms of geometrical, pictorial and mathematical models.
•       Apply theoretical structure to the techniques of experimental physics.
•       Work in a consistent set of units.
•       Evaluate the resultant effect of combined forces.
•       Use vector methods in simple applications.
•       Investigate the motion and forces on a particle moving along a circular path.
•       Investigate the causes and effects of sudden and cyclic changes in the motion of a particle.
•       Evaluate the resultant effect of combined forces.
•       Apply electricity and electronics concepts to practical problems met in engineering.
•       Carry out experiments in electricity and electronics in order to confirm theory and present a laboratory report.
•       Use the concepts of fields and their effect to apply the theoretical framework to solve mathematical and practical problems.

Intended Skill Outcomes

On completion of the module students will have:
•       Developed a range of laboratory and experimental skills
•       Enhanced their skills of numerical manipulation in relation to physical phenomena
•       Employed experimental method, hypothesis and design to explain concepts in physics

Teaching Methods

Teaching Activities
Category Activity Number Length Student Hours Comment
Guided Independent StudyAssessment preparation and completion110:0010:00Semester 1 Examination
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesLecture221:0022:00Lectures (in person)
Guided Independent StudyAssessment preparation and completion145:0045:00Portfolio work
Guided Independent StudyAssessment preparation and completion15:005:00Formative Assessment
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesSmall group teaching661:0066:00Tutorials
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesDrop-in/surgery21:002:00N/A
Guided Independent StudyIndependent study150:0050:00N/A
Total200:00
Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The lectures introduce students to the required topics and give students a grounding in the principles of the subject area. Seminars and tutorials are used for more in-depth investigation and discussion of selected topics. In-course tests will allow formative feedback to be provided. Laboratory classes allow students to develop necessary practical skills and directed self-study enables them to consolidate their learning.

Reading Lists

Assessment Methods

The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners

Exams
Description Length Semester When Set Percentage Comment
Written Examination1201A30Written examination on Sem 1 work
Other Assessment
Description Semester When Set Percentage Comment
Portfolio2M70Work consisting of 20 questions
Formative Assessments

Formative Assessment is an assessment which develops your skills in being assessed, allows for you to receive feedback, and prepares you for being assessed. However, it does not count to your final mark.

Description Semester When Set Comment
Computer assessment1M50 multiple choice questions, 60 mins
Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The unseen examinations and in-course reports assess the students’ knowledge of the subject material and the in-course tests allow formative feedback to enable the student to gauge their progress. The written exams and in-course tests will include aspects that will assess the ability of the student to analyse experimental data, carrying out appropriate numerical manipulations and interpret results. The assessment is weighted heavier in Semester 2 to allow students to develop their knowledge base.

Timetable

Past Exam Papers

General Notes

Original Handbook text:

Welcome to Newcastle University Module Catalogue

This is where you will be able to find all key information about modules on your programme of study. It will help you make an informed decision on the options available to you within your programme.

You may have some queries about the modules available to you. Your school office will be able to signpost you to someone who will support you with any queries.

Disclaimer

The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2025 academic year.

In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described.

Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, staffing changes, and student feedback. Module information for the 2026/27 entry will be published here in early-April 2026. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.