UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, JAMAICA

FACULTY OF SCIENCE AND SPORT

SCHOOL OF NATURAL AND APPLIED SCIENCES
PHYSICS DIVISION
MODULE OUTLINE

MODULE CODE AND MODULE NAME: PHS1019 Physics for Computer Studies
Credits: Four (4)
Semester and year: Semester 2, 2023-24
Schedule: Mondays 8 AM – 10 AM and Thursdays 10 AM – 11 AM
Location: LT- 23 and LT- 49

Instructor's name: Mr. Laten Mclish

Phone Number: 876-775-1909
Email Address: lmclish@utech.edu.jm
Office hours: Tuesday 12: 00 PM to 1: 00 PM, Thursday 11: 00 AM to 12: 00 PM
Location: Zoom using meeting ID: 8623259977 and passcode: 7497427

Module Description

This module focuses on the study of the basic concepts of physics through theoretical and
practical work. Special emphasis will be placed on selected topics such as optics, electricity,
oscillations, waves and electronics. The syllabus is designed to facilitate discussions and
projects on how the basic concepts of physics are applied to selected areas of computer science
and technology.

Module Objectives

Upon completion of the module, the student should:

1. Understand some of the fundamental concepts and principles of physics.

2. Know how to apply certain fundamental concepts and principles of physics to computer
science and technology.
3. Acquire an understanding of how the combination of different electronics components
facilitate the development of modern technology.
4. Appreciate the need for electronics devices/systems to be cooled.

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Content

UNIT 1: PHYSICAL QUANTITIES (10 Hours)

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of the unit student should be able to:

1.1 Describe the Systeme Internationale (SI) system of units.

1.2 List the fundamental quantities, their units and symbols.
1.3 List the characteristics of fundamental quantities.
1.4 Use base units to check the homogeneity of equations.
1.5 Use the prefix and their symbols to indicate multiples or sub-multiples of both fundamental
and derived quantities.
1.6 Apply the terms accuracy, precision, sensitivity and range to physical quantities.
1.7 Distinguish between random error systematic error and mistake.
1.8 Describe ways of minimizing errors in physical measurements.
1.9 Evaluate the uncertainty in derived quantities by addition of actual, fractional or
percentage uncertainty.
1.10 Use suitable conversion factors to carry out inter-conversions among metric units.
1.11 Express the result of a calculation with the correct number of decimal places or significant
figures.
1.12 Determine the errors in physical quantities obtained from laboratory devices.
1.13 Translate information between graphical, numerical, algebraic and verbal forms.
1.14 Select appropriate variables and scales for graph plotting. For linear graphs, determine
the slope and intercept.
1.15 Choose, by inspection, a straight line which will serve as the best straight line through a
set of data points presented graphically.
1.16 Recall standard linear form y = mx + c and rearrange relationships into linear form where

appropriate.
1.17 Recognise and use expressions in decimal and standard form.
1.18 Use calculators for addition, subtraction, multiplication, division square root, square, sines
cosines and tangents.
1.19 Change the subject of an equation.
1.20 Solve simple algebraic equations.
1.21 Solve physical equations by substituting physical quantities using consistent units.

Content:
a) Units and SI System.
b) Accuracy, precision, sensitivity and range.
c) Error Analysis.
d) Measuring Instruments.

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 e) Inter-conversion of units.
f) Graphs.
UNIT 2: HEAT TRANSFER (5 Hours)

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of the unit student should be able to:

2.1 Explain the principle of heat transfer by conduction, convection and radiation.
2.2 Define thermal energy.
2.3 State two methods of transferring heat from electronic components/circuits in
communication systems.
2.4 Describe the structure and cooling principle of heat sinks in electronic equipment.
2.5 Explain how air flow is employed as a part of the cooling system of a computer.
2.6 Define heat capacity and specific heat capacity.
2.7 Calculate heat transfer from electronics systems.

Content:
a) Heat transfer in electronics systems
b) Thermal energy
c) Cooling

UNIT 3: OSCILLATIONS AND WAVES (16 Hours)

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of the unit student should be able to:

3.1 Define a wave.

3.2 Define and use the terms amplitude, frequency, period, speed, wavelength, angular
frequency and phase difference in relation to a wave.
3.3 Categorize waves as longitudinal, transverse, mechanical or electromagnetic, progressive,
stationary or standing.
3.4 Identify all terms in the progressive wave equation.
3.5 Utilize the progressive wave equation y = Asin(kx -ωt) to solve problems.
3.6 Use the wave equation to calculate frequency, wavelength, period, phase difference and
speed of a wave.
3.7 Recall and use wave speed = frequency x wavelength to solve problems.
3.8 Define wave phenomena - refraction, reflection, diffraction, interference and superposition.
3.9 Discuss the notion that electromagnetic waves are transverse and travel with the same
speed in a vacuum.
3.10 Identify the different sections of the electromagnetic spectrum including the various
operating frequency range.
3.11 Utilize the knowledge of the electromagnetic spectrum in relation to areas of computer

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 studies.
3.12 Describe how waves are used in industry, telecommunication, medicine and navigation.

Content:
a) Waves
b) Progressive Waves
c) Transverse and Longitudinal Waves
d) Electromagnetic Waves and their applications to industries

UNIT 4 PHYSICAL OPTICS (8 Hours)

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of the unit student should be able to:

4.1 Explain that light travels in a straight line if there is no change in the medium.
4.2 Outline the principles of refraction and reflection of light.
4.3 Discuss how the laws of refraction and reflection relate to sections of computer studies.
4.4 Predict the direction of the emergent ray as light travels through different mediums.
4.5 Use the equations of refraction and reflection to solve optical problems.
4.6 Define refractive index as sin i/sin r, c1/c2.
4.7 Describe what is meant by total internal reflection and critical angle.
4.8 Use the equation n = 1/ sin C to solve problems.
4.9 Identify and discuss practical applications of total internal reflections in optical fibres
4.10 Explain the principle of superposition.
4.11 Define the meaning of the terms interference and diffraction.

Content:
a) Reflection of Light
b) Refraction of Light: Snell’s Law
c) Total Internal Reflection and critical angle
d) Applications of total internal reflection

UNIT 5: CURRENT OF ELECTRICITY (13 Hours)

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of the unit student should be able to:
5.1 Explain that there are two kind of charge: positive and negative charges.
5.2 Recall that like charges repel whereas unlike charges attract.
5.3 Describe electric current in terms of flow of charge particles.
5.4 Define the coulomb and charge.
5.5 Recall that current is the rate of flow of charge.
5.6 Recall and use the equation Q = It.
5.7 Define potential difference and the volt.
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5.8 Define resistance and the ohm.
5.9 Add resistances in series and parallel.
5.10 Draw and interpret circuit diagram which contains various electrical components.
5.11 Recall and use the equation R = ρl/A.
5.12 State and use Ohm`s law to solve problems.
5.13 Apply characteristics of series and parallel circuit to solve given problems.
5.14 Recall and use the equation V = W/Q.
5.15 Define power and energy.
5.16 Recall and use the power equations: P = IV, P = I 2 R
5.17 Calculate energy in simple circuts.
5.18 Distinguish between materials that are conductors, insulators or semi-conductors.
5.19 Sketch and explain the I-V characteristics of a metallic conductor and a filament lamp.
5.20 Differentiate between a.c and d.c currents.
5.21 Explain how thermal energy may affect computer devices.

Content:
a) Electric Current
b) Charge Carriers and Transport
c) Potential Difference
d) Resistance and resistivity
e) Ohm’s Law

UNIT 6: ELECTOMAGNETIC INDUCTION (6 Hours)

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of the unit student should be able to:

6.1 Describe the concept of magnetic poles and magnetic field lines.
6.2 Recognize that a magnetic field is produced by either current carrying conductor or
permanent magnet.
6.3 Represent magnetic field by field lines.
6.4 Recall and use the equation F = BILsinθ, to calculate the force experience by a current-
carrying conductor when placed in a magnetic field.
6.5 Define the unit of magnetic flux density.
6.6 Employ the concept of magnetic induction to explain the operation of a transformer.
6.7 Apply transformer equation to solve given problems.
6.8 Determine current or magnetic field directions in conductors and magnetic field systems.

Content:
a) Magnetic properties and fields
b) Magnetic induction
c) Magnetic effect of an electric current
d) Magnetic forces

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UNIT 7: ELECTRONICS (12 Hours)

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of the unit student should be able to:

7.1 Describe the electrical properties of semiconductors.

7.2 Describe the most common type of semiconductor used in manufacturing electrical
components.
7.3 Distinguish between p-type and n-type semiconductors.
7.4 Explain how p-n junctions are formed.
7.5 Define capacitance and the Farad.
7.6 Recall and use the equation Q = CV.
7.7 Recall and use formulae for capacitors in series and parallel.
7.8 Explain how semiconductor diodes are used to rectify ac to dc.
7.9 Illustrate the function of a capacitor in a rectifying circuit.
7.10 Describe the I-V characteristics of p-n junction diode.
7.11 Explain how simple characteristics of p-n type junction diode lead to applications in
industry.
7.12 Explain the importance of the transistor in the telecommunication industry.
7.13 Describe the function of simple electronic devices and systems which are found in homes
industry and in communication.
7.14 State how electronic devices and systems influences modern communication.
7.15 Draw the standard symbols used to represent the AND-, OR-, NAND- as well as NOT-
gates.
7.16 Explain the principles of the AND-, OR-, NAND- and NOT-gates.
7.17 Produce the truth-tables for the AND-, OR-, NAND- and NOT-gates.
7.18 Explain the importance of logic gates in the design/operation of computer and
telecommunication systems.

Content:
a) Semi-conductors
b) Capacitors
c) Semi-conducting diodes and Rectification
d) Impact of electronics in society and industry

UNIT 8: EXPERIMENTAL/TUTORIAL WORK (20 Hours)

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of the unit student should be able to:

8.1 Use apparatus and measuring devices competently and safely.

8.2 Record measurements, with due regard to precision, accuracy and units.

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8.3 Select and use appropriate methods to present data.
8.4 Analyse experimental observations and data.
8.5 Investigate the I-V characteristics of the diode.
8.6 Carry out experiment to determine magnetic field line profiles.
8.7 Investigate simple series and parallel circuits.
8.8 Investigate reflection, refraction of light.
8.9 Carry put experiment to determine total internal reflection and critical angle.
8.10 Investigate the behaviour of NOT, OR AND, NAND and NOR-gate, using simple
circuits.
8 11 Investigate heat transfer in systems.

Content:
a) Measurement
b) Carrying out investigation
c) Recording data
d) Interpreting and evaluating data

Instructional Approaches

i. White board or Slides and PowerPoint lecture presentations.

ii. Handouts (optional).
iii. Tutorials: Tutorial sheets for each unit will be provided prior to their discussion.
Students are required to complete all tutorial questions ahead of tutorial discussions.
iv. Class Discussions
v. Co-operative Learning Strategies- Every student is advised to attend every lecture and
tutorial and participate in class.

Recommended text(s)/web links/readings:

Required:

1. Tom Duncan: Advanced level Physics; 4th Edition,

2. Fullick, Patrick : Physics ; Heineman Advanced Science

Additional Reading:

1. Giambattista, Alan; Richardson, McCarthy, Betty Richardson, Robert C: College Physics,

2nd Edition; McGraw Hill Higher Education

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2. Nelkon Michael: Advanced level Physics, 7th Edition; Heineman

Weekly Schedule
Wee Date Topic/Activity Reading
k
1 Unit 1-Physical Quantities Power point on Moodle platform
2 Unit 2-Heat Transfer Power point on Moodle platform
3 Unit 2-Heat Transfer Power point on Moodle platform
4 Unit 3-Oscillation and Waves Power point on Moodle platform
5 Unit 3-Oscillation and Waves Power point on Moodle platform
6 Unit 4-Physical Optics Power point on Moodle platform
7 TEST 1 Duration: 1 h 30 min
8 Revision of TEST 1 and begin Unit 5 Power point on Moodle platform
9 Unit 5-Current of Electricity Power point on Moodle platform
10 Unit 6-Electromagnetic Induction Power point on Moodle platform
11 Unit 7-Electronics Power point on Moodle platform
12 TEST 2 Duration: 1 h 30 min
13 Revision of TEST 2
14
15 EXAMINATIONS BEGIN

Assessment
Description Weighting (%) Due Date
Test 1 Units 1 – 4 12.5 Week 7
Test 2 Units 5 – 8 12.5 Week 12
Laboratory & Tutorials Units 1 – 8 15 + 10
Project 10
Final Examination 40
Total 100%

Grading system
Grade Grade point Percentage Scale
A+ 4.3 90.00 - 100
A 4.0 80.00-89.99
A- 3.67 75.00-79.99
B+ 3.33 70.00-74.99
B 3.0 65.00-69.99
B- 2.67 60.00-64.99
C+ 2.33 55.00-59.99
C 2.00 50.00-54.99
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 D+ 1.67 45.00-49.99
D 1.3 40.00-44.99
U 0.00 0.00-39.99

Specific Requirements for Physics for Computer Studies (PHS1019)

Both test 1 and test 2 will be administered face to face. The following rules will apply.

1. Always bring a valid Utech id when sitting any test.

2. Programmable calculators are not permitted.
3. No form of communication with your peers is permitted once the test has started.

Absence from IN COURSE-TESTS will automatically attract a Zero percent (0 %) mark unless a
valid UTECH medical certificate is produced. There are ABSOLUTELY NO MAKE-UP
TESTS.

Absence from laboratory work will automatically attract a Zero percent (0 %) mark unless a
valid UTECH medical certificate is produced.

Your final examination will be face to face and has a weighting of 40%.

The Laboratory component will also be face to face as well as tutorial during the same time
slot however on different days.

NOTE: Students are to consult UTech, Ja. Student Handbook AY2021/22 for details on
Academic regulations pertaining to academic misconduct.

Students should seek not to commit any academic misconduct. The consequence of such
actions can be obtained under regulation 5 (Statute XIII) of your handbook. These would
be pages 190 to 201 of your handbook. Penalties can be found on page 200 of your
handbook.

College/Faculty/School contact information:

Mrs. Khalilah Burrell Battick, Programme Director

Programme: B.Sc. in Computing
Tel #:8769705651
Email:kburrell@utech.edu.jm

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