KC4014 - Dynamics

What will I learn on this module?

This module is designed to provide you with knowledge in a special topic in Applied Mathematics. This module introduces Newtonian mechanics developing your skills in investigating and building mathematical models and in interpreting the results. The following topics will be covered:

Mathematics Review
Euclidean geometry. Vector functions. Position vector, velocity, acceleration.
Cartesian representation in 3D-space. Scalar and vector products, triple scalar product.

Newton’s Laws
Inertial frames of reference. Newton's Laws of Motion. Mathematical models of forces (gravity, air resistance, reaction, elastic force).

Rectilinear and uniformly accelerated motion
Problems involving constant acceleration (e.g., skidding car), projectiles with/without drag force (e.g., parabolic trajectory, parachutist). Variable mass. Launch and landing of rockets.
Linear elasticity. Ideal spring, simple harmonic motion. Two-spring problems. Free/forced vibration with/without damping. Resonance. Real spring, seismograph.

Rotational motion and central forces
Angular speed, angular velocity. Rotating frames of reference.
Simple pendulum (radial and transverse acceleration). Equations of motion, inertial, Coriolis, centrifugal effects. Effects of Earth rotation on dynamical problems (e.g. projectile motion).
Principle of angular momentum, kinetic and potential energy. Motion under a central force. Kepler’s Laws. Geostationary satellite.

How will I learn on this module?

In this module, you will learn through a combination of lectures, seminars and problem solving sessions. During the lectures, you will be taught the main concepts required and you will be provided with suitable examples or case studies in particle dynamics. Seminars will allow you to obtain help with problems associated with the module throughout delivery. Seminars are used to give you feedback on on-going learning activities.

You will be assessed by two summative assessments these taking the form of a formal written in-class test and a written exam to test concepts and methods at an appropriate level. In addition formative assessments/problems are provided on a weekly basis, and considered with the tutor in seminars, to provide on-going formative assessment, feedback and help regarding assimilation of material at an appropriate pace.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

Lectures and seminars will be the main point of academic contact, offering you with a formal teaching environment for core learning. Seminars will provide you with opportunities for critical enquiry and exchanges. Generic and individual feedback will be provided during seminars.

Outside formal scheduled teaching, you will be able to contact the module team (module tutor, year tutor, programme leader) either via email or the open door policy operated throughout the programme.

Further academic support will be provided through technology-enhanced resources via the e-learning portal. You will have the opportunity to give feedback formally through periodic staff-student committees and directly to the module tutor at the end of the semester.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Acquire a basis of knowledge on Newtonian mechanics.
2. Formulate and solve mathematical problems involving differentiation, integration and differential equations.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. Solve problem and analyse concepts in mathematics applied to Newtonian mechanics.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
4. To develop the ability of learning new concepts, describing and solving mathematical problems making use of appropriate materials/resources.
5. To effectively and concisely communicate physics-based concepts in written form.

How will I be assessed?

SUMMATIVE
1. Coursework (20%) – KU2, PVA1
2. Examination (80%) – KU1, KU2, IPSA1, PVA1, PVA2

Exam/test feedback will be provided individually and also generically to indicate where the cohort has a strong or a weaker answer to examination questions. Formative feedback will be provided during seminars.

Pre-requisite(s)

None

Co-requisite(s)

None

Module abstract

Dynamics will enable you to solve mathematical problems and develop your problem solving skills.

Dynamics follows a combination of lectures and practical approaches. During the seminars, you will work through problems to develop your knowledge of Newtonian mechanics with the support of a tutor. You will be assessed by one in-class test (20%) and one exam (80%).. These assignments will be designed to put forward your new skills and techniques. You will receive constructive feedback during seminars throughout the year semester, and eLearning Portal will serve as a point of contact, information and discussion with the tutor.

You will enhance your employability, enabling you to demonstrate a combination of mathematical and problem-solving skills that are highly prized by businesses in our modern economy and are directly relevant to further study.

Course info

UCAS Code Z069

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 4 years Full Time or 5 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad

School Engineering, Physics and Mathematics

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2027

Fee Information

Module Information

Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

Contact time

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

Images and video

The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies.

Useful Links

Find out about our distinctive approach at
www.northumbria.ac.uk/exp

Admissions Terms and Conditions
northumbria.ac.uk/terms

Fees and Funding
northumbria.ac.uk/fees

Admissions Policy
northumbria.ac.uk/adpolicy

Admissions Complaints Policy
northumbria.ac.uk/complaints

Any Questions?

Our Applicant Services team will be happy to help. They can be contacted on 0191 406 0901 or by using our Contact Form.

Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

Contact time

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

Images and video

The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies.

Accessibility and Student Inclusion

Northumbria University is committed to developing an inclusive, diverse and accessible campus and wider University community and are determined to ensure that opportunities we provide are open to all.

We are proud to work in partnership with AccessAble to provide Detailed Access Guides to our buildings and facilities across our City, Coach Lane and London Campuses. A Detailed Access Guide lets you know what access will be like when you visit somewhere. It looks at the route you will use getting in and what is available inside. All guides have Accessibility Symbols that give you a quick overview of what is available, and photographs to show you what to expect. The guides are produced by trained surveyors who visit our campuses annually to ensure you have trusted and accurate information.

You can use Northumbria’s AccessAble Guides anytime to check the accessibility of a building or facility and to plan your routes and journeys. Search by location, building or accessibility feature to find the information you need.

We are dedicated to helping students who may require additional support during their student journey and offer 1-1 advice and guidance appropriate to individual requirements. If you feel you may need additional support you can find out more about what we offer here where you can also contact us with any questions you may have:

Accessibility support

Student Inclusion support