Wave Motion and OscillationsLaajuus (3 ECTS)

Objective

On completion of the course, the student becomes familiar with the basic concepts and the fundamental laws related to oscillations and wave motion. The student knows how oscillations and wave motion are generated, and acquires an understanding of the phenomena and applications related to these topics.
The student becomes aware that identical mathematical methods can be employed in analyzing apparently unrelated phenomena, such as mechanical and electromagnetic oscillations. The student learns to appreciate the power of mathematical analogies and of representing the fundamental laws of physics with symbolic equations.
The student realizes that classical physics, consisting of classical mechanics and electromagnetism, forms a coherent and logical entity that provides the basis for understanding electromagnetic waves; their detailed physical character, generation, propagation and reception, and relevance to modern telecommunication.

Content

Undamped and damped harmonic oscillations, forced oscillations
Mechanical waves
Wave phenomena: interference, reflection, refraction, diffraction, Doppler effect
Electric oscillations, electromagnetic waves and spectrum

Qualifications

“Magnetism” or corresponding knowledge.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

The student is familiar with the basic concepts of oscillations and wave motion and their interdependence. The student understands the basic phenomena in the field, and knows how to solve simple problems related to oscillations and wave motion.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

Besides the above, the student is capable of applying the fundamental laws of oscillations and wave motion to less simple problems. He/she knows how to explain the basic phenomena in the field using appropriate terminology.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

In addition to the aforementioned requirements, the student is also capable of solving more challenging problems that require applying the concepts and methods of various different topics simultaneously. He/she is also capable of dealing with novel problems that significantly differ from the ones examined during the course. Furthermore, the student is capable of presenting the solutions to the problems in a logical and coherent manner, thus demonstrating a deeper understanding of the contents of the course.