Physics

This module focuses on the underlying skills required in science and engineering. You will learn the importance of units, dimensional analysis, problem solving, presentation skills. We will also review the use of scientific IT, and introduce CAD/CAM and its application.  

The module content will also highlight the relationship between these underlying skills and their role for scientists and engineers in the workplace. Seminars from various physics-based industrial organisations will give you the opportunity to consider your future employment options and outline what will be required to achieve your goals.

In Physics Laboratory 1, you will learn core laboratory skills including measurement, data analysis and electronics. During the module activities, you will use these skills to undertake a set of experiments designed to complement the core physics ideas presented in other course modules.

The module is taught in the laboratory, facilitated by academic and technical staff.

The use of computers to support problem solving in physics is widespread in both academic and industrial research. During this module, you will explore the application of numerical modelling, demonstrating how it can be complementary to mathematical-based analytical techniques, often allowing the examination the characteristics beyond the limitations of standard approaches. The learning focus is on developing appropriate physical models and is applied to the core areas of mechanics, waves and thermal physics.

During this module, you will learn about the physical laws associated with electricity and magnetism and how the motion of charged particles is governed by electric and magnetic fields. Module content will also introduce the properties of electromagnetic waves.

The module is taught using a combination of lectures and interactive workshops.

During this module, you will learn about the laws and applications of classical mechanics ,and how the principles of relativity and quantum physics adapt these laws to describe motion at relativistic speeds and of very small entities such as atoms and electrons.

The module is taught using a combination of lectures and interactive workshops.

Understanding and using mathematics is an essential skill for success in physics. During this module, you will review A-level standard mathematics topics covering algebra, trigonometry, functions, geometry, vectors, complex numbers and calculus, with emphasis on learning their applications to physics.

In this module, you will learn about the origins and principles of quantum mechanics. Both Schrӧdinger’s wave equation and the matrix formalism of quantum mechanics will be introduced, with applications in the fields of atoms and electrons.

The module is delivered using a combination of lectures and problem-solving tutorials.

During Physics Laboratory 2, you will learn about experimental and computational methods applied in physics. You will undertake a series of experiments across a range of areas in physics, learn how to record results and link your findings to laws of physics. You will further develop computing skills and apply these to simulations in physics.

The module is delivered in laboratory settings with instruction and hands-on help.

Learn about principles of wave motion applied to mechanical, sound and electromagnetic waves. The module will introduce wave interference and build your understanding of diffraction in optical systems and applications. The module will also introduce underlying mathematical techniques including partial differential equations, Fourier transforms and convolutions.

The module is delivered using a combination of lectures and problem-solving tutorials.

During this module, you will learn about the laws of thermal physics and how the statistical properties of many particle systems relate to the laws in macroscopic systems. We will also introduce the concept of entropy and build your understanding of different states of matter.

The module is delivered using a combination of lectures and problem-solving tutorials.

You will learn about the fundamental laws of electromagnetism leading to the development of Maxwell’s equations and the electromagnetic wave equation. Underlying mathematical techniques, including vector calculus, will be introduced alongside the physical laws. The module is taught by a combination of lectures and problem-solving tutorials.

This module aims to provide a core grounding in acoustics that will ground your knowledge and support your learning in the other taught modules. In it you will develop a systematic understanding of the physical and mathematical representations of vibrating systems and acoustic waves, notably including loudspeakers and microphones as sound transduction devices. You will learn about the descriptions and physical units of acoustic and vibration phenomena and apply critical thinking to understanding of the assumptions and limitations inherent in acoustics and vibration theory. Using this, you will solve advanced problems in acoustics by application of theory and mathematical techniques. The module will also give you an understanding of how acoustic signals may be handled and processed digitally, and you will study the decomposition of signals in frequency. A key feature of the module is the three half-day lab sessions that aim to both consolidate the other learning and provide practical skills to students. These will occur in a block midway through the trimester allowing distance learners to travel and attend them (some overseas students may require ATAS clearance).

This module is designed to bring together important aspects that are related to physics-based project work. You will learn:

• the use of CAD/CAM software in the context of design and development of complex scientific parts and models;
• how to construct simple sensor circuits and write interface software allowing automatic data collection;
• experimental design and construction, incorporating the CAD/CAM; and,
• interface skills, time management, teamwork and written/oral presentation skills via a group project.

Choose to study a world language in a friendly, supportive environment. Delivered over two semesters, with additional resources available via Blackboard, you will receive around 50 hours of supported learning to help you progress and consolidate your listening, reading, speaking and writing core skills. Available languages include Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish.

Working under the supervision of academic staff, you will conduct a research and/or development project. You will initially conduct background research into your chosen scientific area and produce a literature review highlighting the important history and progress made.

You will learn to work independently and be responsible for your progress (monitored by your supervisor). As part of your final assessment, you produce a professional scientific report outlining the progress made and present this work to an academic staff panel.

You will receive an overview of Nuclear Physics and gain an understanding of nuclear stability in terms of the Liquid Drop Model and of nuclear reactions involving neutrons, protons, electrons and neutrinos, and major experimental techniques and practical applications. The particle physics element will cover the basic discoveries of modern Particle Physics and introduce the ideas of Grand Unified Theory.

This module concentrates on the advanced physics laboratory skills required in science, engineering and the workplace. You can choose to focus on either experimental or computational physics.

You will build knowledge and gain the ability to use and understand the methodologies that underpin hi-tech materials deposition and analysis apparatus.  Throughout the module, we will highlight the relationship between the module topics and their role to scientists and engineers in the workplace.

You will learn how the fundamental laws of physics determine the properties of solids and liquids. The physics behind semiconductors and devices, magnetism and superconductivity will be developed. The module is taught by a combination of lectures and problem solving tutorials.

Learn about the evolution of the universe, the structure and evolution of stars and galaxies and fundamental ideas in cosmology. In the planetary physics elements, you will learn about planetary formation, structure and the properties of matter under extreme conditions as found in the interior of planets.

The module is taught by a combination of lectures and problem solving tutorials.