Undergraduate RMI-SCE200-2023

Energy and the Earth's Environment

Fuel an understanding of energy production, transmission and usage. Unearth issues driving demand for energy. Consider traditional and alternative energy methods. Study the physical principles behind energy transformation from one type to another.

Duration

13 weeks

Study method

100% Online

Available loans

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FEE-HELP

Assessments

100% online

Prior study

Not required

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2023

Subject details

What you'll learn

On successfully completing this course, you should be able to:

Define, specify suitable units for, and state the relationships between basic physical quantities such as force, work, energy, temperature (developing the knowledge capability dimension)
Explain the physical principles governing energy transformations using correct terminology
Demonstrate knowledge of where energy is currently used and how it may be used efficiently
Perform quantitative calculations to assess efficiency of traditional and alternative means of energy production
Demonstrate how even simple atmospheric models can qualitatively and semi-quantitatively reveal the greenhouse effect

Topics covered

- Introduction
- Introduction to Energy Concepts
- Other Methods of Energy Production
- Energy Efficiency and Storage
- Introduction to Atmospheric Physics

Entry requirements

Others

No prior experience in physics is required for this course, although basic mathematical ability in algebra is expected (at year 12 level or basic first year university level).

Additional requirements

No additional requirements

Description

This course is intended to provide a deep understanding of the issues of energy production, transmission and usage. The processes of energy production and consumption will be discussed qualitatively and quantitatively, informed by a working knowledge of the physical principles governing the transformation of energy from one form to another.

The course comprises the following components:

Introduction to Energy Requirements and Usage - covers societal factors influencing the demand for energy and an overview of fossil fuels.
Introduction to Energy Concepts - covers a range of relevant physics needed for the understanding of the other topics, including force & motion, work & energy, temperature & heat, fluids and basic electricity.
Methods of Energy Production - provides an overview of a broad range of alternative and renewable methods of energy production. This section includes discussion of the science behind solar, wind, wave, tidal, geothermal, biomass, hydro and nuclear energy sources.
Introduction to Energy Efficiency and Fuel Cells.
Introduction to atmospheric physics and the greenhouse effect.

Assessments

Online Quizzes (25%)
Virtual labs and simulations (25%)
Interactive group problem solving (25%)
Online timed class test (25%)

Textbooks

For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).