Mechanics module (EG11008)

Mechanics is all about understanding how and why things move. From falling apples to car crashes, from rockets in space to spinning wheels, mechanics explains it all. In this module, you’ll explore the forces and energy behind the motion of objects, learning how to break down problems and predict how things will behave.

You’ll begin with the basics: how to describe motion using quantities like speed, direction, and acceleration. You’ll then look at how forces affect that motion, including friction, gravity, and tension. You'll explore energy, how it's transferred or stored, and learn how momentum plays a role in collisions. Later in the module, you’ll take things a step further by studying how objects spin and rotate.

You’ll learn through a mix of lectures, hands-on problem solving in workshops, and interactive online activities that adapt to your progress.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• explore how to describe and analyse motion in two and three dimensions
• learn how forces cause changes in motion using Newton’s Laws
• understand how energy and work are linked in physical systems
• use momentum and impulse to explain how collisions work
• discover how spinning objects behave and what makes them rotate

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• solve problems involving speed, acceleration, forces, energy, and momentum
• apply core mechanics concepts to real-world and theoretical scenarios

Assignments / assessment

• problem solving assignments using Mastering Physics (70%)
• final exam (30%)

Teaching methods / timetable

• lectures
  • These will be interactive. They will cover key concepts and worked examples
• workshops
  • These will focus on solving real problems using techniques from lectures
• online adaptive exercises
  • These are personalised Mastering Physics tasks. They will adjust to your strengths and weaknesses

You'll also take part in weekly pre- and post-lecture assignments. These will reinforce your understanding, and give you tailored feedback to support your progress throughout the semester.