SFY0028 : Concepts in Thermal and Quantum Physics
- Offered for Year: 2024/25
- Module Leader(s): Dr Tiago Marinheiro
- Owning School: Mathematics, Statistics and Physics
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
| Semester 1 Credit Value: | 10 |
| ECTS Credits: | 5.0 |
| European Credit Transfer System | |
Aims
To introduce the basic aspects of Thermodynamics, Quantum mechanics and Atomic and nuclear physics as a basis for Stage 1 study in a broad range of engineering sciences and applications. These topics are introduced rigorously but without a requirement for A level physics. The module includes a practical work element
Outline Of Syllabus
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.
Heat: Heat capacity and calorimetry. Heat transfer. Typical heat exchange processes.
States of matter: Kinetic theory of gases. Ideal gas laws. Thermal expansion of solids and liquids. Elastic properties. Phase changes. Latent heats.
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Structured Guided Learning | Lecture materials | 11 | 1:00 | 11:00 | Online material to be viewed before the lecture |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 2 | 4:00 | 8:00 | 2 x in-course assessment each requiring 2Hrs preparation 2Hrs completion |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 11:00 | 11:00 | Final exam - 2 hours Preparation & Revision - 9 hours |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 11 | 1:00 | 11:00 | Lecture/problem solving class/Drop In session. |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 11 | 1:00 | 11:00 | In person lecture |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Practical | 3 | 3:00 | 9:00 | Laboratory practical |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 1 | 39:00 | 39:00 | Weekly independent study Quiz preparation |
| Total | 100:00 |
Jointly Taught With
| Code | Title |
|---|---|
| SFY0015 | Foundation Physics A |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
The lecture materials, lectures and notes provide all the knowledge-based requirements of the course. In addition the different modes of delivery (online recording, 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 Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Exams
| Description | Length | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written Examination | 120 | 1 | A | 70 | Final Exam |
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Practical/lab report | 1 | M | 8 | assessed by a worksheet which must be completed within the lab. |
| Practical/lab report | 1 | M | 8 | assessed by a worksheet which must be completed within the lab. |
| Prob solv exercises | 1 | M | 7 | Small in-course assessment. Contains 5-10 questions. |
| Prob solv exercises | 1 | M | 7 | Small in-course assessment. Contains 5-10 questions. |
Formative Assessments
Formative Assessment is an assessment which develops your skills in being assessed, allows for you to receive feedback, and prepares you for being assessed. However, it does not count to your final mark.
| Description | Semester | When Set | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lab exercise | 1 | M | Lab practical |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The module is intended to provide a factual knowledge base and prepare students for the rigors of a stage 1 programme. A formal written examination is most appropriate in this case.
The in course written exercises 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 positive interaction and skill assessment.
Reading Lists
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- SFY0028's Timetable