Physics and Astrophysics with a Year in Industry BSc

Core modules:

Mathematics for Physicists and Astronomers

This module provides the necessary level 1 mathematics for students taking physics and/or astronomy degrees. The following topics will be covered: basic algebra (functions, coordinate systems, algebraic manipulation etc), Taylor and binomial series, common functions of one variable, differentiation and integration techniques, basic complex numbers, first and second order differential equations, vector calculus, properties and applications of matrices and elementary probability theory.

30 credits

Fields and Quanta

This module introduces the key concepts of fields and quanta: electric and magnetic fields, the behaviour of electric charges and currents, vectors and densities, potentials, quantum states and their evolution, the probabilistic nature of fundamental physical law, and the breakdown of classical physics. This module will teach you how physics problems relate to these fundamental concepts, and how those concepts are used to construct solutions.

25 credits

Motion and Heat

This module introduces and applies the key concepts of motion and heat: force, equations of motion, phase space, determinism and free will, symmetry and conservation laws, waves and oscillations, coherence and classical frequency-time uncertainty, the laws of thermodynamics, thermal equilibrium, entropy and the arrow of time. You will learn how physics problems relate to these fundamental concepts, and how those concepts are used to construct solutions. You will apply the key concepts to design experiments to test scientific hypotheses. You will develop your data analysis and communication skills and to use different sources of information in your learning. You will work independently and as part of a group, developing a wide variety of study skills that will prepare you for the rest of your degree programme.

25 credits

Introduction to Astrophysics

One of four half-modules forming the Level-1 Astronomy course, PHY104 aims to equip students with a basic understanding of the important physical concepts and techniques involved in astronomy with an emphasis on how fundamental results can be derived from fairly simple observations. The course consists of four sections: (i) Basic Concepts, Fluxes, Temperatures and Magnitudes; (ii) Astronomical Spectroscopy; (iii) Gravitational Astrophysics. Parts (i),(ii) and (iii) each comprise some six lectures. The lectures are supported by problem classes and laboratory work.

10 credits

Observing the Night Sky

This module aims to equip the student with a grounding in the observational and computational data analysis skills they will need as part of an astronomy degree programme, and is an essential pre-requisite of the more advanced handling of astrophysical data that will be expected as part of Levels 2, 3 and 4. The module consists of a mixture of taught material, workshops, and practical activities in positional astronomy, telescope optics, practical observing skills, basic python programming, and astrophysical data analysis.

10 credits

Our Evolving Universe

The course provides a general overview of astronomy suitable for those with no previous experience of the subject. The principal topics covered are (1) how we deduce useful physical parameters from observed quantities, (2) the structure and evolution of stars, (3) the structure of the Milky Way, and the classification, structure and evolution of galaxies in general, (4) an introduction to cosmology and (5) extrasolar plantets and an introduction to astrobiology. All topics are treated in a descriptive manner with minimal mathematics.

10 credits

The Solar System

One of four half-modules forming the Level-1 Astronomy course, PHY106 has five main sections. (i) provides a brief survey of the characteristics, composition and origin of the various planets, their satellites, the asteroids and comets and the motions and interactions of these bodies; (ii) discusses the internal structures of the planets, the Moon and other major bodies; (iii) is concerned with their surfaces and the processes that shape them, impacts, erosion, plate tectonics etc.; (iv) discusses planetary atmospheres and ionospheres, their origins and why they differ from one planet to another; (v) is concerned with planetary magnetism and its origins.

10 credits

Core modules:

Classical and Quantum Physics

This module provides a foundation for advanced studies in physics by developing integrated skills and knowledge associated with the core topics of physics. These topics include quantum mechanics, classical physics, optics, thermal physics, electromagnetism and the properties of matter. Key mathematical methods are taught alongside the physics topics. Laboratory and computing skills are applied to the topics to reinforce key concepts, develop investigative, experimental and group working skills and develop a wide range of approaches to solving problems. The module also helps students place their physics knowledge and skills in a global context by providing opportunities to apply these attributes to external facing problems. These opportunities support the development of transferable skills such as group working, project management and information literacy.

70 credits

Astronomical Spectroscopy

This level 2 module provides an overview of astronomical spectroscopy for astrophysics dual students, covering how spectrographs work, the nature of spectra, atomic physics relevant to astronomical spectroscopy, line broadening mechanisms (natural, pressure, thermal) and the Curve of Growth for the determination of ionic abundances in stellar atmospheres, plus spectral diagnostics of ionized nebulae. Content from lectures are reinforced through an exercise involving specialist astronomical software relating to nebular diagnostics, plus the manipulation of stellar spectroscopic datasets using the programming language Python for the calculation of ionic abundances.

10 credits

Galaxies

This Level 2 Astronomy half-module aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to galaxies. It consists of six parts: (i) astronomical distance determination and galaxy classification; (ii) the properties of the main stellar and a gas components of our Milky Way galaxy, and its local environment; (iii) the properties of spiral galaxies; (iv) the properties of elliptical galaxies; (v) active galaxies; (vi) galaxy evolution. Students¿ presentation and research skills are developed through a 2500 word essay assignment.

10 credits

Observational Astronomy

This level 2 module builds upon astronomy material taught in level 1 and aims to equip students with the skills and understanding to plan, obtain and analyse optical imaging data of astronomical objects. Topics include astronomical telescopes, instrumentation, electronic detectors and data analysis in the Python computing language.

10 credits

Special Relativity & Subatomic Physics

Special relativity is a key foundation of modern physics, particularly in the contexts of particle physics and astrophysics where E = mc2 and relativistic speeds are crucial concepts. In this module, the fundamental principles of special relativity will be explained, emphasising the energy-momentum four-vector and its applications to particle collisions and decays. Applications to nuclear physics include nuclear mass & binding energy, radioactive decay, and nuclear reactions. We will also cover the structure of the nucleus (liquid drop and shell model) and, building on first year quantum physics, the concept of isospin, ending with an introduction to the quark model.

10 credits

Stellar Structure and Evolution

The module aims to provide an understanding of the physical processes occurring in stars and responsible for their internal structure and evolution from the main sequence to white dwarfs, neutron stars stars and black holes. It builds on Introduction to Astrophysics (PHY104) and seeks to explain the evolutionary phenomena described in Our Evolving Universe (PHY111).

10 credits

Core modules:

Astronomy Project

This Level 3 Astronomy half module provides an opportunity for students to develop and exercise their skills and ability to undertake independent, albeit closely supervised, research. Students are able to select from a wide variety of proposals for projects, many involving practical observation and field work; others are essentially theoretical or interpretative or require the development of computer programmes designed to simulate a variety of astronomical phenomena. Many projects are collaborative and encourage students to work with others in a team. Assessment is based on individual written reports and oral examination. These provide exercise in presentational skills.

10 credits

Atomic and Laser Physics

This module covers the physics of atoms and lasers at an intermediate level. The course begins with the solution of the Schrodinger equation for the hydrogen atom and the atomic wave functions that emerge from it. It then covers atomic selection rules, spectral fine structure and the effects of external fields. The spectra of selected multi-electron atoms are described. The basic operation of the laser is then covered by introducing the concepts of stimulated emission and population inversion. The course concludes with a description of common lasers and their applications.

10 credits

Introduction to Cosmology

Cosmology is the science of the whole Universe: its past history, present structure and future evolution. In this module we discuss how our understanding of cosmology has developed over time, and study the observed properties of the universe, particularly the rate of expansion, the chemical composition, and the nature of the cosmic microwave background, can be used to constrain theoretical models and obtain value for the parameters of the now-standard Hot Big Bang cosmological model.

10 credits

Particle Physics

This Level 3 Physics half module introduces students to the exciting field of modern particle physics. It provides the mathematical tools of relativistic kinematics, enabling them to study interactions and decays and evaluate scattering form factors. Particles are classified as fermions - the constituents of matter (quarks and leptons) - or as bosons, the propagators of field. The four fundamental interactions are outlined. Three are studied in detail: Feynman diagrams are introduced to describe higher order quantum electrodynamics; weak interactions are discussed from beta decay to high energy electroweak unification; strong interactions, binding quarks into hadrons, are presented with the experimental evidence for colour. The role symmetry plays in the allowed particles and their interactions is emphasised.

10 credits

Problem Solving & Advanced Skills in Physics/Astrophysics

This half-module seeks to provide insight and support to the Level 3 Physics and Astrophysics programme as a whole. Lectures and tutorials will build upon previous skills developed involving data analysis and errors, information retrieval and scientific writing. Problem classes are directed to impart a broad, coherent and critical grasp of the fundamentals of Physics. Students are encouraged to attempt unfamiliar problems, extract the essentials, and so obtain quick, rough but sound solutions. The module involves group work and is assessed by means of class tests and written examinations. The latter are designed to test basic concepts of Physics and Astrophysics and the ability to apply them to unrehearsed situations.

10 credits

Solid State Physics

This is the final core solid state physics module. It covers the classification of solids into the three types - conductors, semiconductors and insulators, the free electron model, the origin of electronic band structure, the fundamental properties of conductors and semiconductors, carrier statistics, experimental techniques used to study carriers in a solid, the classification and physics of the principal types of magnetism.

10 credits

Stellar Atmospheres

This module describes how astronomers obtain information about the properties of stars from their atmospheres. On completion, you should be able to appreciate differences between the main spectral types, understand how the interaction of radiation with matter affects the appearance of a stellar atmosphere, including the major sources of opacity. You will have a knowledge of the formation of spectral lines, line broadening mechanisms, plus an appreciation of the use of stellar continua and lines as atmospheric diagnostics. The outer solar atmosphere will also be discussed, together with outflows from late and early type stars.

10 credits

Optional modules:

Industrial Group Project in Physics

PHY346 provides students with an industrial project where team working, planning, time management; presentation and report writing are integrated with science problem solving. The industrial client poses a problem that a group work on over two semesters to resolve. Interim and final presentations are made to the client and academic supervisors. Project work may use laboratory measurement and computational approaches as well as referencing leading research literature.

20 credits

Microscopy and Spectroscopy Laboratory

This course is based around students gaining hands-on experience using a range of sophisticated laboratory techniques that will be used to explore a range of different properties of functional materials. Current techniques available include: optical microscopy, atomic force microscopy, absorption and photoluminescence spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, angular-reflectance spectroscopy, residual gas analysis, deposition of thin films and temperature-dependent optical and electronic spectroscopy. The inclusion of further techniques is planned. These techniques will be introduced to the students through lectures that describe the underpinning science. Students will use each of these techniques in turn Semester One, where they will undertake (in pairs) a series of short practical experiments. In Semester Two, students will concentrate on the use of one or two techniques, and (in pairs) will use them to undertake a longer project-style piece of research.

20 credits

Physics Education and Outreach

This 20-credit Extended Project unit is intended primarily for students considering a career in teaching, but may also be of interest to those wishing to pursue careers in science communication in general. The first half of the unit will introduce a range of topics including theory of learning and teaching, skills such as video editing, physics in the National Curriculum, and a range of hands-on exercises in science teaching and communication. Students will undertake a range of assignments related to the taught material, which may include lesson observations in schools, making videos or podcasts, radio broadcasts, writing popular articles or creating resources for schools. The second half consists of a 10-credit project: a wide range of schools and outreach-related topics are available.Note that admission to this unit is subject to an interview and a DBS check. This is because parts of the unit require students to visit schools and interact with pupils.

20 credits

Advanced Electrodynamics

This module gives a detailed mathematical foundation for modern electrodynamics, starting from Maxwell's equations, charge conservation and the wave equation, to gauge invariance, waveguides, cavities and antennas. After a brief recap of vector calculus, we explore the role of the scalar and vector potential, the multi-pole expansion of the field, the Poisson and Laplace equations, energy and momentum conservation of the fields, and Green's functions. We conclude with a relativistic treatment of the fields.

10 credits

Advanced Programming in Python

Python is a widely-available programming language that can be used to design powerful computer programmes suitable for scientific applications. Python is also used widely in the computing industry and in research. This module builds on the basic introduction provided in PHY235 by introducing advanced concepts such as defensive programming, classes, program design and optimisation. This teaching will be underpinned with a series of projects which will furnish the students with the ability to design complex Python scripts to address a wide variety of problems including those involving analysis of `big data with emphasis on presentation of results using advanced visualisation methods.

10 credits

Dark Matter and the Universe

Dark matter, though still unidentified and not yet directly detected, is established as a major constituent of the universe according to modern cosmology. In this course, we will review the astrophysical and cosmological evidence for the existence of dark matter, critically assess the various candidates that have been put forward, and discuss direct detection methods for the two most popular candidates¿WIMPs and axions. The course has a multidisciplinary flavour combining work in astronomy, particle physics, solid state physics, detector technology and philosophy, encouraging development of skills in all these.

10 credits

Further Quantum Mechanics

This module builds on the quantum mechanics learned in the perquisites PHY250 and PHY251. The Heisenberg matrix formulation of the theory is developed from the Schrodinger wave picture. Approximately methods (perturbation theory and variational method) are derived and applied. Methods for solving time dependent problems are developed. Problems involving magnetic fields and spin are treated. Many particle wavefunctions for fermions and bosons are introduced.

10 credits

History of Astronomy

The module aims to provide an introduction to the historical development of modern astronomy. After a brief chronological overview and a discussion of the scientific status of astronomy and the philosophy of science in general, the course is divided into a series of thematic topics addressed in roughly chronological order. We will focus on the nature of discovery in astronomy, in particular the interplay between theory and observation, the role of technological advances, and the relationship between astronomy and physics.

10 credits

Mathematical Physics

Linear algebra: matrices and vectors; eigenvalue problems; matrix diagonalisation; vector spaces; transformation of basis; rotation matrices; tensors; Lie groups; Noether's theorem. Complex analysis: analytic functions; contour integration; Cauchy theorem; Taylor and Laurent series; residue theorem; application to evaluating integrals; Kronig-Kramers relations; conformal mapping; application to solving Laplace's equation.

10 credits

Nuclear Astrophysics

The aims of this Level 3 Astronomy module are:1) To examine the evidence for the present distribution of the chemical elements in the Universe.2) To study the various nuclear processes that have led to the evolution of these elemental abundances.3) To discuss the possible astrophysical sites where these elements are produced.

10 credits

Nuclear Physics

This half-module Level 3 Physics course aims to cover the general properties of nuclei, to examine the characteristics of the nuclear force, to introduce the principal models of the nucleus, to discuss radioactivity and interactions with matter, to study nuclear reactions, in particular fission, fusion and the bomb, and to develop problem solving skills in all these areas. The motivation is that nuclear processes play a fundamental role in the physical world, in the origin of the universe, in the creation of the chemical elements, as the energy source of the stars and in the basic constituents of matter - plus the best of all motives - curiosity.

10 credits

Physical Computing

Digital circuits underpin our modern lives, including the acquisition and processing of data for science. In this course we will study the fundamental building blocks of digital processing circuits and computers. We will learn to describe circuits using the language VHDL, and how to program computers using the hardware-oriented high level language C. We will build interesting and useful digital architectures, and apply the skills we have acquired in laboratory exercises.

10 credits

Physics Level 3 Project 1

The aim of this half module is to provide an opportunity for students to exercise and develop their skills and ability to undertake independent, albeit closely supervised, research in physics. A very wide selection of projects is provided, often arising from current research in the Department. Many are practical, others are essentially theoretical or interpretative or require the development of computer programmes designed to simulate a variety of physical phenomena. Most projects are collaborative and encourage students to work in pairs. Assessment is based on individual written reports and oral examinations. These provide exercise in presentational skills.

10 credits

Physics Level 3 Project 2

The aim of this half module is to provide an opportunity for students to exercise and develop their skills and ability to undertake independent, albeit closely supervised, research in physics. A very wide selection of projects is provided, often arising from current research in the Department. Many are practical, others are essentially theoretical or interpretative or require the development of computer programmes designed to simulate a variety of physical phenomena. Most projects are collaborative and encourage students to work in pairs. Assessment is based on individual written reports and oral examinations. These provide exercise in presentational skills.

10 credits

Physics in an Enterprise Culture

This is a seminar and workshop based course with a high level of student centred learning. The unit will introduce students to the methods and skills associated with the research/business management, planning, costing, intellectual property issues, patenting and marketing. It will broaden students understanding of the mechanics of project planning and research commercialisation. The course is divided into two main themes: Theme 1: Research proposal. Here, students have to make a reasoned case for a new and original piece of research. Students will form part of a series of small 'panel-meetings' to assess the strengths and weaknesses of work submitted by other students on the course. Theme 2: Business proposal. Here, students are expected to propose a new technological design, product, invention or service, and pitch the idea to a group of 'experts'.

10 credits

Semiconductor Physics and Technology

This module builds on the core solid state physics modules to provide an introduction to semiconductor electronic and opto-electronic devices and modern developments in crystal growth to produce low dimensional semiconductor structures (quantum wells, wires and dots). Band structure engineering, the main physical properties and a number of applications of low dimensional semiconductor structures are covered.

10 credits

Statistical Physics

Statistical Physics is the derivation of the thermal properties of matter using the under-lying microscopic Hamiltonians. The aims of this course are to introduce the techniques of Statistical Mechanics, and to use them to describe a wide variety of phenomena from physics, chemistry and astronomy.

10 credits

The Physics of Soft Condensed Matter

Soft condensed matter is a generic name for a class of materials that play a crucial role in technology as well as providing fascinating and timely scientific problems. These complex materials are typified by polymers, gels and colloidal dispersions, whose properties often seem intermediate between ordinary liquids and solids. Familiar examples from everyday life include plastics, soaps and detergents, foodstuffs, and indeed the material from which living organisms are constructed. Only relatively recently has it been realised that despite the complexity of these materials elegant and simple physical principles often underlie their behaviour; this course provides an introduction to these principles.

10 credits