Africa Virtual University - AVU

Mode of Delivery

• Online
• Blended mode online and face to face
• Face-to-face

1. Rationale

Physics is a study of Energy and its transformations. One of the ways of energy transformation happens when objects are set in motion. Description of motion has been studied in Mechanics I module. The emphasis on mechanics I was on the kinematic and dynamic description of particles motion. This module extends the kinematics and dynamics of particle motion to dynamics of a system of particles; rotational motion rigid bodies and Gravitation. Hence ability solve problems using the equation of motion of a rotating rigid body when the motion is about any fixed axis, as well as when the motion is abut a principal axis will be developed. Furthermore the learner will be able to calculate the kinetic energy of rotation of a rotating rigid body and use this as an additional form of kinetic energy in solving problems using the conservation of energy.

2. Prerequisite or Knowledge

In order to study this module you need to complete Mechanics I of the AVUTeachers’ Training  Module.

3. General objective(s)

After completing the module you should be able to

• Develop understanding of linear and angular momentum
• Understand dynamics of rotational motion
• Understand gravitational interaction and its application in artificial satellite.
• Develop skills and habits of solving problems in a well reasoned and neat manner

4. Time

This module can be completed in 120hrs.

5. Materials

The following list identifies and describes the equipment necessary for all of theactivities in this module. The quantities listed are required for each group.

1.  
   1. Computer: - A personal computer with word processing and spreadsheet software
   2. String and Ball: - Rotational motion experiment
   3. Meter Stick: - Rotational Motion Experiment.