Mechanics

This course will introduce the basic concepts of Newtonian Mechanics and Thermodynamics.  

Mechanics is the study of the motion of bodies under the action of physical forces.  The course will focus on the conditions for static equilibrium, on the motion of particles and rigid bodies, and on the motion and deformation of continuums such as solids, fluids and gases.  Thermodynamics is the study of how energy can be converted in different forms by applying heat and work.  This course will examine how the macroscopic properties of continuums change under the influence of heat, work and mixing in terms of their temperature, volume and state of aggregation. 

The relevance of mechanics and thermodynamics is first discussed at theoretical and basic level whereafter it is applied and illustrated by analyses of many relevant mechanical and thermodynamical processes that take place in the solid earth, the oceans, the cryosphere and the atmosphere. These applications will illustrate and motivate the usefulness of mechanics and thermodynamics for Earth, Climate and Technology.  

In addition to the specific knowledge acquired, students will also practice how to conceptualise physical problems and solve them by making use of first principles and the fundamental physical laws of mechanics and thermodynamics. 

Formative assessment: 

• Weekly in-class exercises in small groups.  

• Feedback is provided at class level by the lecturer. 

Summative assessment: 

ECTB1130A = 3EC 

• Exam in week 1.9, over content of weeks 1.1-1.5 

• Individual in-class tests from weeks 1.2 – 1.8 (see below) 

ECTB1130B = 5EC 

• Exam in week 2.6, over content of weeks 1.6-2.4 

• Individual in-class tests from weeks 1.10 – 2.4 (see below) 

The exams in weeks 1.9 and 2.6, as well as the resits, are individual and closed book. Only a non-graphical calculator is allowed, and an extended equation sheet will be provided. 

The in-class tests will be collected at the end of the weekly sessions dedicated to practicing exercises, where at least of 75% of the exercises of each test need to present a tentative solution to count for the summative assessment. A tentative solution means that an exercise has been mostly solved, even if the answer is not necessarily correct. 

The grade of each part is calculated as: MAX( 0.85 exam + 0.15 in-class tests; exam ), hence the in-class test results will only count if it positively affects the grade. 

The in-class test results are only valid in the current academic year.