Module Provider: |
Physics |
Number of credits: |
10 [5 ECTS credits] |
Level: |
H (Honours) |
Terms in which taught: |
Spring and Summer |
Module Convenor: |
Dr
PA
Hatherly |
Pre-requisites: |
PH1001 PH1002 MA111 PH1005 PH2002 PH3701 PH2003
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Co-requisites: |
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Modules excluded: |
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Current from: |
2005/6 |
Aims:
To develop a basic understanding of the properties of galaxies. |
Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module it is expected that the student will be able to:
Discuss the evidence for galaxies being distant, extended objects.
Discuss the techniques for establishing the distances of galaxies.
Recall the Hubble "tuning fork" diagram and the scheme for classification of galaxies.
Recall the Hertzprung-Russell (HR) diagram and use it to assess populations of stars.
Discuss surface brightness functions and their use in calculating effective sizes of galaxies.
Discuss and evaluate the properties of elliptical, spiral and irregular galaxies, including:
Stellar populations
Galactic rotation
Chemical composition and evolution
Galactic interactions and mergers
Discuss and evaluate the properties of galactic nuclei and the evidence for super-massive black holes
Describe the properties of active galactic nuclei including:
Quasars and Seyfert galaxies
Radio galaxies and synchrotron radiation
Galactic jets and super-luminal motion
Discuss the dynamics of galaxy clusters and the large-scale structure of the Universe. |
Additional outcomes:
Students will develop a greater appreciation for the unity of physics through this module, as it draws upon all areas of classical, thermal and relativistic physics covered in Parts 1 and 2. |
Outline content:
The module covers the physical properties of galaxies, their evolution and interactions. |
Brief description of teaching
and learning methods:
Typically one 50 minute lecture will be given each week, followed by a workshop session every other week in which selected problems are discussed as well as providing an open forum for discussion of relevant topics.
Given the small number of lectures, a significant amount of private study will be expected, permitting students to review and consolidate their knowledge, to study new topics via directed reading and to address continuous assessment work. A web page will be provided containing a timetable for the module, lecture notes, workshop notes, assessment questions and feedback, and links to external pages providing additional information. |
Contact hours:
| |
Autumn |
Spring |
Summer |
| Lectures |
|
10 |
2 |
| Tutorials/seminars |
|
5 |
1 |
| Practicals |
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| Other contact (eg study visits) |
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| |
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| Total hours |
|
15 |
3 |
| |
|
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| Number of essays or assignments |
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2 |
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| Other (eg major seminar paper) |
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Assessment:
Coursework:
Assessed problems completed in private study, set at regular intervals
Relative percentage of coursework : 20%
Examinations:
One 1½ hour examination in June, 80%
Requirements for a pass: 40%
Reassessment arrangements:
One 1½ hour examination in September, 100% |
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