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PHY-10024 - Module Specification
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

For academic year: 2022/23 Last Updated: 19 January 2023

PHY-10024 - Nature of matter
Coordinator: Patrick Connell Room: LJ 2.03 Tel: +44 1782 7 34922
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 4
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 734921

Programme/Approved Electives for 2022/23

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2022/23

This level 1 module is delivered in the first semester and provides an introduction to the subject material that bridges the gap between pre-university study and the first year of a university Physics/Astrophysics course. It explores the nature of solid and gaseous matter from the classical picture to the need for a quantum description. It sets the stage for more advanced study of quantum physics, thermodynamics and solid state physics in the second year. A mathematics component is included, in which the requisite material is taught in a Physics context. Also included is a laboratory component (which includes experiments on some of the subject matter delivered in lectures).

Aims
To provide an understanding of the behaviour of gases and solids in terms of the atomic and quantum nature of matter, and to introduce the mathematics necessary to achieve this understanding. To provide insight into some of these topics through laboratory work.

Talis Aspire Reading List
Any reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.
http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/phy-10024/lists

Intended Learning Outcomes

Understand basic concepts in classical physics and their application to gases and solids: 1,3,4,5
Use mathematics (including calculus) in solving physical and astrophysical problems: 2,4,5
Carry out laboratory experiments, keep a complete, accurate and professional account of the work. Communicate the results in a professional manner via laboratory reports. Manipulate data using IT. Develop algorithms and write simple code: 3
Appreciate (i) inadequacy of classical physics and (ii) the need for quantum theory to understand gases and solids: 1,4,5

Study hours

Lectures 24h
Problem classes 6h
Laboratory sessions 18h
Maths support classes 5h
Maths problem classes 4h
Problem sheets 18h
Maths class test/unseen examination 1h
Laboratory reports 12h
Directed reading/independent study 60h
Examination 2h

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Unseen Exam weighted 40%
2-hour unseen written examination
Exam paper has two sections: Section A - 10 short questions with total marks 40/100; Section B - choice of 2 out of 4 long questions worth 60/100 marks.

2: Class Test weighted 20%
1-hour unseen Mathematics examination
The test assesses the maths component attached to the module.

3: Laboratory Assessment weighted 20%
Laboratory and Computing Sessions
Continuous assessment of a laboratory diary containing several experiments (weight 30%). Assessment of a formal lab report (weight 60%). Assessment of a computer programming exercises (weight 10%).

4: Problem Sheets weighted 10%
Problem Sheets
Three assessed problem sheets, which are equivalent to 500 words.

5: Tutorial weighted 10%
Problem Classes
Tutor-moderated classes in which students complete assigned problems on Maths and Nature of Matter, with assistance given as necessary.

Please note that for the 2022/23 Academic Year programmes may be adapted to operate in accordance with a flexible, digital approach. This means that there may be some changes made to how modules are delivered and assessed. The latest information will be provided to you by your School in module handbooks. We endeavour to give you as much notice as possible of any changes and details about the circumstance in which changes are made to programmes can be found in the Student Agreement, available at: https://www.keele.ac.uk/student-terms-and-conditions/

Last Updated: 19 January 2023