Module Provider: |
Physics |
Number of credits: |
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Level: |
I (Intermediate) |
Terms in which taught: |
Autumn, Spring and Summer |
Module Convenor: |
Dr
RA
Bennett |
Pre-requisites: |
PH1002 PH1001 and PH1003
|
Co-requisites: |
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Modules excluded: |
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Module version for: |
2006/7 |
Aims:
To enable students to develop an understanding of the macroscopic properties of matter.
To provide students with an understanding of the concepts of classical thermodynamics, and to develop problem solving skills in applications to a range of physical systems.
Note that the Thermal Physics content contributes 10 credits. See Additional Outcomes for details of the remaining 10 credits. |
Assessable learning outcomes:
After the module each student should be able to:
Employ partial differentials in mathematical operations
Explain the distribution of velocities in an ideal gas
Define the terms isothermal, isobaric, isochoric, adiabatic, quasistatic, to recall the first law of thermodynamics and to use it in solving problems related to the ideal gas
Describe the Carnot engine and to use the Carnot cycle and entropy in solving problems on the ideal gas
Apply the first law to problems on real systems
Define enthalpy and describe its use in flow processes
Define reversibility and irreversibility, and develop the Clausius and the Kelvin-Planck statements of the second law
Explain Clausius' theorem and describe the general properties of the entropy function
State what is meant by a microstate of a system
Solve simple problems for isolated systems when the counting of microstates is straightforward
Account for the successes and limitations of the Einstein and Debye models for the heat capacity of solids
Derive (but not necessarily recall) key results for systems in contact with a heat bath and apply these to simple problems |
Additional outcomes:
In addition to the Thermal Physics content, an Introduction to Condensed Matter Physics is provided, to a total of 5 credits The remaining 5 credits is an element of Careers Skills, embedded in this module. |
Outline content:
Classical thermodynamics, condensed matter physics and embedded Careers Skills. |
Brief description of teaching
and learning methods:
The teaching approach is via lectures and workshops at roughly two lectures per week followed by a workshop. Skeleton notes are provided on Blackboard and the intranet comprising of the principal equations, key points and suggested readings. Students are given fuller versions of the arguments which have a fairly high mathematical content. Since much of the material is provided in this form, lecture time can be devoted to discussion of the less routine points in arguments, to the significance of the results and to problem solving.
Independent learning is encouraged by directed reading towards the end of each term. In the first term the topic will be broadly on Heat engines and Efficiency and the material will be briefly outlined after the independent study period such that students can ensure they have fully covered the brief. In the second term the topic for independent learning will be Thermal Physics in Condensed Matter, which will not be further outlined.
Suggested reading:
The recommended book for the early part of the module is Carrington's Basic Thermodynamics (Oxford Uni. Press) which follows the ideal gas first approach and has a good selection of worked examples. For later sections of the module it is suggested that students obtain personal copies of either Statistical Physics by Mandl (Wiley) or Introductory Statistical Mechanics by Bowley and Sanchez (OUP). For various sections of the module it may be useful to refer to other text books such as Thermal Physics by Kittel and Kroemer (Freeman) and Introductory Statistical Physics by Betts and Turner (Addison Wesley) |
Contact hours:
| |
Autumn |
Spring |
Summer |
| Lectures |
15 |
16 |
|
| Tutorials/seminars |
7 |
8 |
|
| Practicals |
|
|
|
| Other contact (eg study visits) |
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|
|
| |
|
|
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| Total hours |
22 |
24 |
|
| |
|
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| Number of essays or assignments |
1 |
1 |
|
| Other (eg major seminar paper) |
|
Departmental test |
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Assessment:
Coursework:
Part of the continuous assessment comes from submitted solutions to examples selected from the workshop problems. The remaining part comes from a departmental test set during the Spring term.
Relative percentage of coursework : 40%
Examination:
One three hour examination in June, 60%
Both independent learning topics will be assessed in this formal examination.
Requirement for a pass : 40%
Reassessment arrangements:
One three hour examination in September, 100% |
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