Aims

To introduce the basic aspects of forces, fields, thermal physics, atomic and nuclear physics are introduced without a requirement for A level physics. The module includes a practical work element.

Outline Of Syllabus

Mechanics

Kinematics: units, dimensions, scalar and vector quantities, velocity, acceleration.
Forces: momentum, impulse, conservation of momentum, collisions. Newton’s laws. Gravitational and inertial mass.
Energy: work, energy, power, potential energy, conservation of energy.
Circular motion: angular velocity and acceleration, centripetal and centrifugal forces. Rotation about centre of mass, moment of inertia, angular momentum.
Fields: gravitational fields, potential and potential energy in fields. Inverse square law.

Structure of the atom

Atomic physics: Rutherford scattering experiment. The wave/particle nature of light. The photo- electric effect. The photon and atomic structure. The Bohr model of the hydrogen atom. The spectrum of atomic hydrogen. Multi-electron atoms. The Periodic Table. X-rays. X-ray production. Spectra. Absorption. Applications
Nuclear Physics: Atomic number, atomic weight, isotopes. Stability of nuclei.
Natural radioactivity: alpha, beta and gamma radiation. Sources of radiation. Half-life. Equation of radioactive decay.

Thermal & Material Physics

Temperature: temperature scales and thermometers.
Heat: Heat capacity and calorimetry. Heat transfer. Conduction. Convection. Radiation.
States of matter: Kinetic theory of gases. Ideal gas laws. Thermal expansion of solids and liquids. Elastic properties. Phase changes. Latent heats.

Experimental Physics

Experimental physics is introduced, providing practice in the basic skills in scientific measurement and a background to the theoretical concepts taught in the module.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The lecture materials, lectures and notes provide all the knowledge-based requirements of the course. In addition the Online videos, Lectures and Problem solving sessions allows the material to be covered several times and reinforced through different methods. Pedagogically this should result in better understanding and increased retention.

The problem solving classes will help with general problem solving and to solidify their mathematical skills.

The practical part will link the lecture material with real life applications and provides an opportunity for the students to develop laboratory skills.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The module is intended to provide a factual knowledge base. A formal written examination is most appropriate in this case. In addition, the format of the examination will enable students to reliably demonstrate their own knowledge, understanding and application of learning outcomes.

The in course assessments allow the students to develop their problem solving techniques, to practise the methods learnt in the module, to assess their progress and to receive feedback; these assessments have a secondary formative purpose as well as their primary summative purpose.

The practical sessions require an assessment to ensure that students engage positively with the tasks, and that the practical skill component of the intended skill outcomes is assessed.