Core physics
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The role of physics is to explain the behaviour of the world around us – from everyday objects to cosmic phenomena. This module introduces you to the fundamental physics concepts powering modern innovation. You’ll explore motion mechanics and heat dynamics, investigate invisible fields and wave behaviour, and venture into the mind-bending realms of quantum physics and relativity. Through solving real-world physics problems, you’ll sharpen your analytical thinking and mathematical abilities while developing essential communication skills. These foundations will prepare you to delve deeper into the fascinating universe of physical sciences.
What you will study
Topic 1: Motion in space
First, you’ll explore the fundamental physics topic of force and motion, uncovering how objects move and interact. You’ll learn to model and predict motion, describe the effects of different forces, and understand mechanical processes from football kicks to planetary orbits.
Topic 2: Particle collisions
Equipped with an understanding of force and motion, you’ll next examine what happens when objects collide. Using conservation laws, you’ll describe complex mechanical processes and, with an introduction to relativity, understand how these interactions can change at incredibly high speeds, such as in particle accelerators.
Topic 3: Thermal and statistical mechanics
The third topic takes your understanding of the motion of single particles and interactions between a few particles and looks at the collective behaviour of many particles. Using a theoretical ‘ideal’ gas as a model, you’ll encounter the four laws of thermodynamics and understand their application in familiar devices, from engines to refrigerators and heat pumps.
Topic 4: Force fields
You’ll next investigate the mysterious concepts of forces and fields. Gravity, electricity and magnetism all act at a distance, moving objects without contact – learn how to visualise these unseen actors and understand how and why they work.
Topic 5: Waves and interference
Similar to fields, waves emanate out from their point of origin. You’ll learn about different wave types, how they interact, and how they can be harnessed and applied in the real world, from musical instruments to retinal scanners.
Topic 6: Quantum physics
The world around us is classical and certain, but it’s built of microscopic quantum building blocks that are fundamentally unpredictable. In this topic, you’ll explore this inherent quantum uncertainty and the blurring between particle and wave objects, particularly the photon, a particle of light, and investigate how this interacts with matter.
Entry requirements
We recommend you’ve passed Essential mathematics 1 (MST124) or be able to provide evidence you have the required mathematical skills.
You’ll also need appropriate knowledge of basic physical sciences obtained through:
- OU level 1 study
- equivalent work at another higher education institution.
Preparatory work
We recommend you first complete the following:
What's included
You’ll have access to a module website, which includes:
- a week-by-week study planner
- course-specific module materials
- audio and video content
- assignment details and submission section
- online tutorial access
- student and tutor group forums
- access to our online OpenSTEM labs.
You’ll also receive a booklet with extended topic summaries, key equations and additional exercises.
You will need
- Basic scientific calculator.
- Camera or scanner to record digital images of your work.
Computing requirements
- Primary device – A desktop or laptop computer. It’s possible to access some materials on a mobile phone, tablet or Chromebook; however, they will not be suitable as your primary device.
- Peripheral device – Headphones/earphones with a built-in microphone for online tutorials.
- Our OU Study app operates on supported versions of Android and iOS.
- Operating systems – Windows 11 or latest supported macOS. Microsoft will no longer support Windows 10 as of 14 October 2025.
- Internet access – Broadband or mobile connection.
- Browser – Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are recommended. Mozilla Firefox and Safari may be suitable.