Learning outcomes

The aim of this course is to provide the basis for scientific understanding of the world and the technologies around us. Based on observation, experimentation and reflection, physics seeks a simple explanation that leads to the formulation of laws or principles. This approach requires precise formulation of concepts and ideas and rigourous reasoning. The course therefore emphasises the understanding of concepts and principles.

At the end of this course, students will be able to :

    Make appropriate use of equations, laws and principles of physics in order to analyse and interpret a simple observation;
    Work with orders of magnitude and units correctly;
    Explain and interpret observable phenomena using concepts from the physical sciences;
    Develop a critical scientific mind and establish scientific reasoning when faced with a given problem.
 

Goals

In this course, students will learn the basic concepts of physics, which will be essential for the courses and projects of the following years in which more advanced physical concepts will be addressed. It is important to train the student to observe physical phenomena and the thinking, reasoning and rigour associated with them.

Content

In this course, students will learn the basic concepts of physics, in particular the laws of mechanics and electromagnetism. 

Table of contents

Mechanics :

  • Kinematics
  • Equilibrium
  • Dynamics
  • Work, energy and power
  • Gravitation
  • Periodic movements

Electricity :

  • Electrostatics
  • Direct currents
  • Magnetism
  • Alternating currents

Teaching methods

This course is an introductory presentation of the main chapters of classical mechanics (12 hours) and the foundations of electromagnetism (12 hours).

During the oral presentation, as far as possible, new concepts are introduced by experiments, or established on the basis of simple demonstrations. The fundamental laws are explained, with the emphasis on the usual approach in physics: description, analysis and generalisation of the phenomenon.

Theoretical lectures are supplemented by practical sessions (12 hrs) where students learn to solve problems and deepen their understanding of the basic concepts.

Assessment method

Written exam plus continuous evaluation for the practical sessions

Sources, references and any support material

For the part on mechanics: 

All slideshows are available online.

Harris Benson, Physique I – Mécanique

 

For the part on electricity and magnetism :

The textbook is available online (webcampus) free of charge or in printed version from the university shop.

All slideshows along with summaries are available online.

Interested students may also use the following textbooks:

  • Harris Benson, Physique II – Électricité et Magnétisme (De Boeck, ISBN 9782804193805)
  • John D. Cutnell, Kenneth W. Johnson, Physics 5th edition  (Wiley)
  • D. Halliday, R. Resnick and J. Walker, Fundamentals of Physics 6th edition (Wiley)

 

Language of instruction

French
Training Study programme Block Credits Mandatory
Bachelor in Business Engineering Standard 0 4
Bachelor in Business Engineering Standard 1 4