Physics for Mechanical Engineering

Faculty

Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science

Version

Version 1 of 15.02.2026.

Module identifier

11B2339

Module level

Bachelor

Language of instruction

German

ECTS credit points and grading

5.0

Module frequency

winter and summer term

Duration

1 semester

 

 

Brief description

Physical laws are the basis of almost every technical application. Many areas of physics are taught in separate modules. This module therefore focuses on the fundamental, interdisciplinary approach of physics. It is taught using the example of the transport of electric current and waves.

Teaching and learning outcomes

1. Waves

1.1 Oscillations

1.2 Circular and spherical waves

1.3 Refraction

1.4 Interference

1.5 Diffraction

2. Electrical engineering

2.1 Charge, current, voltage, energy, power

2.2 Kirchhoff laws: circuits with resistors

Overall workload

The total workload for the module is 150 hours (see also "ECTS credit points and grading").

Teaching and learning methods
Lecturer based learning
Workload hoursType of teachingMedia implementationConcretization
45LecturePresence-
15Laboratory activityPresence-
Lecturer independent learning
Workload hoursType of teachingMedia implementationConcretization
50Preparation/follow-up for course work-
40Exam preparation-
Graded examination
  • Written examination
Ungraded exam
  • Field work / Experimental work
Exam duration and scope

Written exam: see current regulations

The experimental work comprises 3 to 5 experiments. 

Recommended prior knowledge

Basic knowledge of mathematics, differential calculus and statics.

Knowledge Broadening

After completing this module, students will be familiar with the basic concepts of electrical engineering and wave theory. They will be able to calculate the electrical properties of simple networks. They are familiar with the refraction, diffraction and interference of waves.

Knowledge deepening

Students expand their school knowledge of electrical engineering and wave theory.

Communication and Cooperation

As part of the practical course, students acquire basic knowledge of how measurement results are communicated. They strengthen their ability to cooperate and organize themselves when carrying out and evaluating the experiments.

Literature

[1] Hering, E., Martin, R., Stohrer, M.: Physik für Ingenieure. Heidelberg: Springer, 13. Aufl., 2021

[2] Tipler, P.: Physik für Wissenschaftler und Ingenieure. Heidelberg, Berlin, Oxford: Spektrum, 7. Aufl., 2015

[3] Halliday, D., Resnick, R.: Physik. Weinheim: Vily-VCH, 3. Aufl., 2017

[4] Rybach, J.: Physik für Bachelors. München: Hanser-Verlag, 4. Aufl., 2019

[5] Hagmann, G.: Grundlagen der Elektrotechnik. Wiebelsheim: Aula, 18. Aufl., 2020

Applicability in study programs

  • Bachelor of Vocational Education - Automotive Engineering
    • Bachelor of Vocational Education - Automotive Engineering B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

  • Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor)
    • Mechanical Engineering B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

  • Mechanical Engineering in Practical Networks
    • Mechanical Engineering in Practical Networks B.Sc. (01.03.2026)

  • Bachelor of Vocational Education - Metals Engineering
    • Bachelor of Vocational Education - Metals Engineering B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

  • Aircraft and Flight Engineering
    • Aircraft and Flight Engineering B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

  • Automotive Engineering (Bachelor)
    • Automotive Engineering B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

    Person responsible for the module
    • Kreßmann, Reiner
    Teachers
    • Kreßmann, Reiner
    • Wagner, Dieter
    • Eck, Markus