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PHY-20027 - Module Specification
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

For academic year: 2023/24 Last Updated: 13 February 2024

PHY-20027 - Optics and Thermodynamics
Coordinator: Joana Maria Oliveira Room: LJ1.48 Tel: +44 1782 7 33493
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 5
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 734921

Programme/Approved Electives for 2023/24

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

Registration on level 2 of a degree programme in physics or astrophysics

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2023/24

This module explores the theory and applications of the key topics in Geometrical Optics, Physical Optics and Thermodynamics.
Thermodynamics topics include thermodynamic equilibrium, heat capacity, the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Laws, heat engines, entropy, thermodynamic potentials and phase transitions.
Optics topis include refractive surfaces, thin lenses and simple optical systems, interference, diffraction and polarisation.
There is also a laboratory component, which is aimed at enhancing experimental and communication skills.

Aims
This module aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical and experimental background of geometrical optics, physical optics and thermodynamics.
By applying established techniques for the critical analysis of numerical calculations it aims to develop problem solving and experimental skills in these topics.
It also further develops practical skills in the execution and reporting of laboratory experiments.

Talis Aspire Reading List
Any reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.
http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/phy-20027/lists

Intended Learning Outcomes

Comprehensive understanding of the relevant theoretical and experimental background of geometrical optics, physical optics and thermodynamics.
: 1,2,3,4
Use a range of established techniques for critical analysis of numerical calculations in connection with problems in geometrical optics, physical optics and thermodynamics.
: 1,2,3,4
Extended abilities in the execution and reporting of laboratory work within the context of either physics or astrophysics.
: 4

Study hours

24 hours of lectures.
24 hours laboratory reports and problem sheets.
12 hours problem classes.
24 hours of laboratory work.
66 hours of examination revision and private study.

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Unseen Exam weighted 60%
2 hour unseen examination
Section A: 10 short questions. Students to attempt all questions = 40% in total Section B: A choice of 1 question out of 2 = 30% in total Section C: A choice of 1 question out of 2 = 30% in total

2: Tutorial weighted 10%
Completing the assigned problems in problem classes
Completing the assigned problems in problem classes

3: Problem Sheets weighted 10%
Problem sheets
Assessed sheets with practical exercises. Equivalent to ~500 words combined.

4: Laboratory Report weighted 20%
Continuous assessment and two short laboratory reports
Assessment at the bench and as reported in laboratory diaries; accompanied by two short lab reports describing the execution and results from assigned experiments. Equivalent to ~1000 words combined.

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: 13 February 2024