Dr. V.S.

KRISHNA GOVERNMENT DEGREE AND PG COLLEGE

(An Autonomous Institution Affiliated to Andhra University
Reaccredited by NAAC with A Grade (3rd Cycle)
District Resource Centre and Centre for Research Studies
Maddilapalem, Visakhapatnam 530013, Andhra Pradesh

Programme: B.Sc. Honours in Physics (Major)

w.e.f. AY 2023-24 COURSE CODE 23PHYM21
SEMESTER-II COURSE 3: MECHANICS AND PROPERTIES OF MATTER
Theory Credits: 3 3 hrs/week

Course Objective:
The course on Mechanics and Properties of Matter aims to provide students with a fundamental
understanding of the behaviour of physical systems, both in terms of mechanical motion and in
terms of the properties of matter
Learning outcomes:

On Completion of the course, the students will be able to Knowledge level (Bloom’s
Taxonomy)

CO 1 Understand and apply the concepts of scalar and vector Level 2 (Understanding)
fields, calculate the gradient of a scalar field, determine
the divergence and curl of a vector field
CO 2 Apply the laws of motion, solve equations of motion for Level 3 (Applying)
variable mass systems
CO 3 Define a rigid body and comprehend rotational kinematic Level 2 (Understanding)
relations, derive equations of motion for rotating bodies,
analyse the precession of a top and gyroscope, Level 4 (Analysing)
understand the precession of the equinoxes

CO 4 Define central forces and provide examples, understand Level 2 (Understanding)

the characteristics and conservative nature of central
forces, derive equations of motion under central forces. Level 4 (Analysing)

CO 5 Differentiate between Galilean relativity and the concept Level 2 (Understanding)

of absolute frames, comprehend the postulates of the
special theory of relativity, apply Lorentz Level 3 (Applying)
transformations, understand, and solve problems Level 4 (Analysing)

UNIT-I VECTOR ANALYSIS

Scalar and vector fields, gradient of a scalar field and its physical significance. Divergence and curl of
a vector field with derivations and physical interpretation. Vector integration (line, surface, and
volume), Statement and proof of Gauss and Stokes theorems
UNIT-II MECHANICS OF PARTICLES
Laws of motion, motion of variable mass system, Equation of motion of a rocket. Conservation of
energy and momentum, Collisions in two and three dimensions, Concept of impact parameter,
scattering cross-section, Rutherford scattering-derivation.
UNIT-III MECHANICS OF RIGID BODIES AND CONTINUOUS MEDIA
Definition of rigid body, rotational kinematic relations, equation of motion for a rotating body,
Precession of a top, Gyroscope, Precession of the equinoxes. Elastic constants of isotropic solids and
their relations, Poisson's ratio, and expression for Poisson's ratio. Classification of beams, types of
bending, point load, distributed load.
UNIT-IV CENTRAL FORCES
Central forces, definition and examples, characteristics of central forces, conservative nature of central
forces, conservative force as a negative gradient of potential energy, equations of motion under a
central force. Derivation of Kepler’s laws. Motion of satellites, Basic idea of Global Positioning
System (GPS)*
UNIT-V SPECIAL THEORY OF RELATIVITY
Galilean relativity, Absolute frames. Michelson-Morley experiment, The negative result. Postulates of
special theory of relativity. Lorentz transformation, time dilation, length contraction, addition of
velocities, mass-energy relation. Addition of velocities *, four vector formulation*.
(* Added contents of the syllabus)

Course with focus on Employability/ Entrepreneurship /Skill development modules

Skill Employability Entrepreneurship
development

Topics added under Autonomous category

S.No Title of the topic added Justification
1 Basic idea of Global Positioning System (GPS)* Incorporating GPS into the
undergraduate syllabus can
provide students with a solid
foundation in a technology that
has transformed the way we
navigate and interact with the
world
2 Addition of velocities Learning about relativistic
velocity addition helps
students appreciate the beauty
and elegance of Einstein's
theory of special relativity
3 Four vector formulation Four-vectors provide a unified
framework to describe both
 spatial and temporal aspects of
physical phenomena, aiding in
the simplification and elegance
of equations.

REFERENCE BOOKS:
1. BSc Physics -Telugu Akademy, Hyderabad
2. Mechanics - D.S. Mathur, Sulthan Chand & Co, New Delhi
3. Mechanics - J.C. Upadhyaya, Ramprasad & Co., Agra
4. Properties of Matter - D.S. Mathur, S.Chand & Co, New Delhi ,11th Edn., 2000
5. Physics Vol. I - Resnick-Halliday-Krane ,Wiley, 2001
6. Properties of Matter – Brijlal & Subrmanyam, S. Chand &Co. 1982
7. Dynamics of Particles and Rigid bodies– Anil Rao, Cambridge Univ Press, 2006
8. Mechanics-EM Purcell, Mc Graw Hill
9. University Physics-FW Sears, MW Zemansky & HD Young, Narosa Publications,
Delhi
10. College Physics-I. T. Bhima sankaram and G. Prasad. Himalaya Publishing House.
11. Mechanics, S. G. Venkata chalapathy, Margham Publication, 2003.

CO-PO Mapping
1- Low, 2- Moderate, 3- High, ‘-‘ No Correlation

PO 1 PO 2 PO 3 PO 4 PO 5 PO 6 PO 7 PO 8 PO 9
CO 1
CO 2
CO 3
CO 4
CO 5

CO-PSO Mapping
1- Low, 2- Moderate, 3- High, ‘-‘ No Correlation

PSO 1 PSO 2 PSO 3 PSO 4 PSO 5

CO 1
CO 2
CO 3
CO 4
CO 5
 STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Unit I: Vector Analysis

Activity: Field Mapping

Students can choose a physical field (e.g., temperature, magnetic field) and create a field map by
taking measurements at different points. They can then calculate the gradient of the field and
analyse the variations. This activity helps them understand the concept of gradient in a scalar
field.

Unit II: Mechanics of Particles

Activity: Collision Experiments

Students can set up simple collision experiments using marbles, carts, or other objects. They can
measure the initial and final velocities, masses, and analyze the momentum conservation. By
varying the conditions (e.g., masses, initial velocities), they can observe the effects on the
collision outcomes.

Unit III: Mechanics of Rigid Bodies and Continuous Media

Activity: Balancing Act

Students can experiment with balancing various objects (e.g., rulers, books) on different points
to understand the concept of center of mass and stability. They can analyse the equilibrium
conditions and explore how the position of the center of mass affects the stability.

Unit IV: Central Forces

Activity: Pendulum Motion

Students can investigate the motion of a simple pendulum by varying its length and measuring
the time period. They can analyze the relationship between the period and the length, and discuss
the concept of centripetal force and its role in circular motion.

Unit V: Special Theory of Relativity

Activity: Time Measurement

Students can perform a time measurement experiment using simple devices like water clocks or
sand timers. They can compare the measured time between two events at different relative
speeds and discuss the concept of time dilation
 Dr. V.S.KRISHNA GOVERNMENT DEGREE AND PG COLLEGE
(An Autonomous Institution Affiliated to Andhra University
Reaccredited by NAAC with A Grade (3rd Cycle)
District Resource Centre and Centre for Research Studies
Maddilapalem, Visakhapatnam 530013, Andhra Pradesh

Programme: B.Sc. Honours in Physics (Major)

w.e.f. AY 2023-24 COURSE CODE 23PHYM21P

SEMESTER II COURSE 3: MECHANICS AND PROPERTIES OF MATTER

Practical Credits: 1 2hrs/week

COURSE OBJECTIVE:

To develop practical skills in the use of laboratory equipment and experimental techniques for
measuring properties of matter and analyzing mechanical systems.

Learning outcomes:

On Completion of the course, the students will be able to Knowledge level (Bloom’s
Taxonomy)

CO 1 Mastery of experimental techniques: Students should Level 2 (Understanding)

become proficient in using laboratory equipment and
experimental techniques to measure properties of matter Level 3 (Applying)
and analyze mechanical systems Level 4 (Analysing)
CO 2 Application of theory to practice: Students should be Level 3 (Applying)
able to apply theoretical concepts learned in lectures to
real-world situations, and understand the limitations of
theoretical models.
CO 3 Accurate recording and analysis of data: Students Level 2 (Understanding)
should be able to accurately record and analyze
experimental data, including understanding the Level 3 (Applying)
significance of error analysis and statistical methods. Level 4 (Analysing)

CO 4 Critical thinking and problem solving: Students should Level 2 (Understanding)

be able to identify sources of error, troubleshoot
experimental problems, and develop critical thinking Level 4 (Analysing)
skills in experimental design and analysis Level 5 (Evaluating)
CO 5 Understanding of physical principles: Students should Level 2 (Understanding)
develop an understanding of the physical principles
governing mechanical systems and the properties of Level 3 (Applying)
matter, including elasticity, viscosity, and thermal Level 4 (Analysing)
expansion.
Minimum of 6 experiments to be done and recorded

1. Viscosity of liquid by the flow method (Poiseuille’s method)

2. Young’s modulus of the material of a bar (scale) by uniform bending
3. Young’s modulus of the material a bar (scale) by non- uniform bending
4. Surface tension of a liquid by capillary rise method
5. Determination of radius of capillary tube by Hg thread method
6. Viscosity of liquid by Searle’s viscometer method
7. Bifilar suspension –moment of inertia of a regular rectangular body.
8. Determination of moment of inertia using Fly-wheel
9. Determination of the height of a building using a sextant.
10. Rigidity modulus of material of a wire-dynamic method (torsional pendulum)
 Dr. V.S.KRISHNA GOVERNMENT DEGREE AND PG COLLEGE
(An Autonomous Institution Affiliated to Andhra University
Reaccredited by NAAC with A Grade (3rd Cycle)
District Resource Centre and Centre for Research Studies
Maddilapalem, Visakhapatnam 530013, Andhra Pradesh

Programme: B.Sc. Honours in Physics (Major)

w.e.f. AY 2023-24 COURSE CODE 23PHYM21
SEMESTER II COURSE 3: MECHANICS AND PROPERTIES OF
MATTER
Theory Credits: 3 3 hrs/week

Blue Print for Semester End Theory Examinations

S.No Type of No of questions given No of questions to be answered
question No of Marks Total No of Marks Total
questions allotted to marks questions allotted to marks
each each
question question
1 Section A 10 (Two 4 40 5 (Any 4 20
Short questions five out of
answer from each 10
questions unit) questions)
2 Section B 10 (Two 8 80 5 8 40
Long questions (Answer
answer from each one
questions unit with question
only from each
internal unit)
choice)
Total 120 60

(𝟏𝟐𝟎−𝟔𝟎)
Percentage of choice given = × 𝟏𝟎𝟎 = 𝟓𝟎%
𝟏𝟐𝟎
 Dr. V.S.KRISHNA GOVERNMENT DEGREE AND PG COLLEGE
(An Autonomous Institution Affiliated to Andhra University
Reaccredited by NAAC with A Grade (3rd Cycle)
District Resource Centre and Centre for Research Studies
Maddilapalem, Visakhapatnam 530013, Andhra Pradesh

Programme: B.Sc. Honours in Physics (Major)

w.e.f. AY 2023-24 COURSE CODE 23PHYM21
SEMESTER-II COURSE 3: MECHANICS AND PROPERTIES OF MATTER
BLUE PRINT FOR SEMESTER END EXAMINATIONS PAPER SETTING

Learning level wise Weightage

Bloom's Weightage Marks Essay type Short answer type
Taxonomy level
Knowledge/ Remember 33% 20 2(two out of four) I (one out of two)
Understanding/ 27% 16 2(two out of four)
Comprehension
Application 20% 12 I (one out of two) I (one out of two)
Analysis 13% 8 2(two out of four)
Synthesis/ Evaluate 7% 4 I (one out of two)
Total IOO 60 5(each question 5 out of 10
has internal questions
choice)

Chapter wise Weightage

Name of the 8 Marks 4 Marks
Sl. No. Module/ Chapter
chapter
VECTOR
1 I ANALYSIS
2(one out of two) 2
MECHANICS OF
2 II PARTICLES
2(one out of two) 2
MECHANICS OF
RIGID BODIES
3 III AND 2(one out of two) 2
CONTINUOUS
MEDIA
4 IV CENTRAL FORCES 2(one out of two) 2
5 V SPECIAL THEORY
2(one out of two) 2
OF RELATIVITY
5(each question
5 out of given
has internal
10
choice)
 Dr. V.S.KRISHNA GOVERNMENT DEGREE AND PG COLLEGE
(An Autonomous Institution Affiliated to Andhra University
Reaccredited by NAAC with A Grade (3rd Cycle)
District Resource Centre and Centre for Research Studies
Maddilapalem, Visakhapatnam 530013, Andhra Pradesh

Programme: B.Sc. Honours in Physics (Major)

w.e.f. AY 2023-24 COURSE CODE 23PHYM21
SEMESTER II COURSE 3: MECHANICS AND PROPERTIES OF
MATTER
Theory Credits: 3 3 hrs/week
Model Question Paper
Duration: 3Hrs Max Marks: 60
Section A
Answer any five questions from the following (4M× 𝟓 = 𝟐𝟎𝑴)
1. Show that curl of a conservative force is zero?
2.What is line integral, write its significance?
3.Explain conservation of energy and momentum?
4. Explain collisions in two dimensions?
5.Write a short note on Gyroscope?
6.Explain precession of equinoxes?
7.Show that central force can be written as negative gradient of potential energy?
8.Write a short note on GPS
9.Explain length contraction?
10.State the postulates of special theory of relativity?
Section B
Answer all the questions (8M× 𝟓 = 𝟒𝟎𝑴)

11.(a) State and prove Gauss Divergence theorem in vectors

(OR)
(b) State and prove Stokes’s theorem
12.(a) Define Variable Mass System? Derive an expression for the final velocity of the
Rocket?
(OR)
(b) Define impact parameter and scattering cross section? Derive an expression for
Scattering Angle
13.(a) Write rotational kinematic relations of a rigid body and derive equation of motion of
a rigid body?
(OR)
(b) What are elastic constants of an isotropic solids and obtain their relations?
14.(a) Define Central Force? Obtain the equation of motion of a body under central force
(OR)
(b) State Kepler’s Laws? Prove Kepler’s first law of Planetary Motion
15. (a) Derive equations of Lorentz Transformations of Space and Time
(OR)
(b) Derive the Einstein Mass-Energy Relationship