 |
Astrophysics
School of Physical and Geographical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences |
Last Updated 7 September 2009
Principal Course Timetable Blocks 4
The Physics and Astrophysics courses at Keele are available as dual honours subjects which may be taken in a variety of combinations - with another science, a social science or a humanities subject. As a discipline, physics deals with fundamental concepts about nature and how we can understand and predict natural phenomena. As such, it contributes to our understanding of other areas of science, develops the application of mathematical skills and has an intellectual resonance with many humanities disciplines. Astrophysics is the study of physics in the context of astronomical phenomena. For this reason, many of the level 1 and level 2 modules are common to both these degree routes. Although a good background in physics is essential for these courses, the mathematics requirement is less stringent since all the mathematical skills are taught within the context of the level 1 physics modules.
The modules are based on lectures, practical work and a variety of coursework, supported by weekly problem classes. Most lecture-based modules are assessed by a mixture of examination and problems sheets which are completed during the semester. At level 2, assessment of the laboratory work is included in all modules; at levels 1 and 3 there are separate laboratory or project modules.
For those studying dual honours combinations from within the sciences, it is possible to major in either subject at level 3 by selecting all modules from within the discipline.
Modules PHY-10001, 10002 and 10006 are available within the Complementary Studies Programme and have no specific physics prerequisites.
NB. Because of variations in staff availability and research interests from time to time, certain courses may not run in particular semesters. Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students please confirm availability with the Department when applying.
Astrophysics Dual Honours - Level 1 Modules
| Semester 1 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
|
PHY-10022 |
Mechanics, Gravity and Relativity |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
This level 1 module builds on A-level physics by taking the familiar subject of mechanics, but integrating it into calculus-based mathematics, thus laying the foundation for physics and astrophysics degrees. The module develops skills in applying physical principles and mathematical techniques to physical and astrophysical situations, and to laboratory based experiments. |
|
|
PHY-10024 |
Nature of matter |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
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). |
| Semester 2 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
|
PHY-10020 |
Oscillations and Waves |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
This Level 1 module runs in the second semester. It explores the physical principles and mathematical description of oscillatory and wave phenomena, which find application in many areas of classical and modern physics and astrophysics. The module requires a firm grasp of material covered in Level 1 Mechanics, and it sets the stage for the treatment of more advanced topics in optics, quantum mechanics, and electromagnetism at Levels 2 and 3. A mathematics component is included, in which fundamental techniques routinely used in physics are taught and practised. There is also a laboratory component, which involves bench work, computing and communication exercises.
|
|
|
PHY-10023 |
Electricity and Stellar Structure |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
This level 1 module examines one of the fundamental forces of physics, electromagnetism, developing an understanding of how this applies to widespread physical processes.
The course then turns to stars, showing that the physical laws studied in the course so far can be applied straightforwardly to stars, showing why stars behave and evolve as they do, thus developing an understanding of this most ubiquitous of astrophysical objects. |
Astrophysics Dual Honours - Level 2 Modules
| Semester 1 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
|
PHY-20006 |
Quantum Mechanics |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|
|
|
PHY-20027 |
Optics and Thermodynamics |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|
| Semester 2 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
|
PHY-20002 |
Stellar Astrophysics |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
An understanding of the effect of physical processes on the structure and evolution of stars. Nuclear processes in stars and stellar evolution. The origin of elements in stars.
2 hour lecture & one general tutorial per week, plus astrophysics skills |
|
|
PHY-20022 |
Astrophysics - Study Abroad III |
O |
C
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
Details of this module will depend on the Overseas University and the modules chosen at this institution, and this will be discussed on an individual basis between the student and the School's Study Abroad tutor. |
|
|
PHY-20023 |
Astrophysics - Study Abroad IV |
O |
C
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
Details of this module will depend on the Overseas University and the modules chosen at this institution, and this will be discussed on an individual basis between the student and the School's Study Abroad tutor. |
|
|
PHY-20026 |
Statistical Mechanics and Solid State Physics |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|
Astrophysics Dual Honours - Level 3 Modules
| Semester 1 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
|
PHY-30002 |
The Physics of Interstellar Medium |
O |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
The application of quantum physics and electromagnetic theory to the understanding of the interstellar medium, and the application of thermodynamics to the interaction of stars with their environment.
|
|
|
PHY-30004 |
Electromagnetism & Radiation |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
Electromagnetism and its applications in astrophysics, the nature of electromagnetic waves in vacuum and various media. Electromagnetic waves and matter; quantum mechanical aspects; the connection with the macroscopic world.
2 hours lecture and tutorial support |
|
|
PHY-30023 |
Particles, Accelerators and Reactor Physics |
O |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|
| Semester 1-2 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
#
|
PHY-30006 |
Astrophysics Group Project and Science Communication |
C |
C
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
Students carry out a major project as part of a team activity. Projects are attached to research group and involve development of data analysis and reporting skills.
6 hours laboratory |
| Semester 2 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
|
PHY-30001 |
Cosmology |
O |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
Expansion of the universe; cosmic microwave background; structure in the universe; dark matter; inflation; relevance of particle physics to cosmology.
2 hour lecture per week and tutorial support |
|
|
PHY-30003 |
The Physics of Compact Objects |
O |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
Applications of statistical and quantum physics to stellar structure; white dwarf and neutron stars; pulsars (M15).
2 hour lecture and tutorial support |
|
|
PHY-30009 |
Quantum Physics of Atoms and Molecules |
O |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
Perturbation effects on atomic systems are analysed. The quantum mechanics of simple molecules is studied, including their vibrational and rotational characteristics. Some consideration is given to the general philosophical aspects of quantum theory.
2 hour lecture and tutorial support |
|
|
PHY-30010 |
Polymer Physics |
O |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
The nature and properties of (mainly) industrial polymers; structures and transitions; experimental techniques.
2 hour lecture and tutorial support |
|
|
PHY-30025 |
Life in the Universe |
O |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|
|
|
PHY-30026 |
Computational Methods in Physics and Astrophysics |
O |
C
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|
|
|
PHY-30027 |
Data Analysis and Model Testing |
O |
C
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|
Astrophysics Major - Level 1 Modules
| Semester 1 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
|
PHY-10022 |
Mechanics, Gravity and Relativity |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
This level 1 module builds on A-level physics by taking the familiar subject of mechanics, but integrating it into calculus-based mathematics, thus laying the foundation for physics and astrophysics degrees. The module develops skills in applying physical principles and mathematical techniques to physical and astrophysical situations, and to laboratory based experiments. |
|
|
PHY-10024 |
Nature of matter |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
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). |
| Semester 2 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
|
PHY-10020 |
Oscillations and Waves |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
This Level 1 module runs in the second semester. It explores the physical principles and mathematical description of oscillatory and wave phenomena, which find application in many areas of classical and modern physics and astrophysics. The module requires a firm grasp of material covered in Level 1 Mechanics, and it sets the stage for the treatment of more advanced topics in optics, quantum mechanics, and electromagnetism at Levels 2 and 3. A mathematics component is included, in which fundamental techniques routinely used in physics are taught and practised. There is also a laboratory component, which involves bench work, computing and communication exercises.
|
|
|
PHY-10023 |
Electricity and Stellar Structure |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
This level 1 module examines one of the fundamental forces of physics, electromagnetism, developing an understanding of how this applies to widespread physical processes.
The course then turns to stars, showing that the physical laws studied in the course so far can be applied straightforwardly to stars, showing why stars behave and evolve as they do, thus developing an understanding of this most ubiquitous of astrophysical objects. |
Astrophysics Major - Level 2 Modules
| Semester 1 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
|
PHY-20006 |
Quantum Mechanics |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|
|
|
PHY-20027 |
Optics and Thermodynamics |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|
| Semester 2 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
|
PHY-20002 |
Stellar Astrophysics |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
An understanding of the effect of physical processes on the structure and evolution of stars. Nuclear processes in stars and stellar evolution. The origin of elements in stars.
2 hour lecture & one general tutorial per week, plus astrophysics skills |
|
|
PHY-20022 |
Astrophysics - Study Abroad III |
O |
C
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
Details of this module will depend on the Overseas University and the modules chosen at this institution, and this will be discussed on an individual basis between the student and the School's Study Abroad tutor. |
|
|
PHY-20023 |
Astrophysics - Study Abroad IV |
O |
C
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
Details of this module will depend on the Overseas University and the modules chosen at this institution, and this will be discussed on an individual basis between the student and the School's Study Abroad tutor. |
|
|
PHY-20026 |
Statistical Mechanics and Solid State Physics |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|
Astrophysics Major - Level 3 Modules
| Semester 1 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
|
PHY-30002 |
The Physics of Interstellar Medium |
O |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
The application of quantum physics and electromagnetic theory to the understanding of the interstellar medium, and the application of thermodynamics to the interaction of stars with their environment.
|
|
|
PHY-30004 |
Electromagnetism & Radiation |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
Electromagnetism and its applications in astrophysics, the nature of electromagnetic waves in vacuum and various media. Electromagnetic waves and matter; quantum mechanical aspects; the connection with the macroscopic world.
2 hours lecture and tutorial support |
|
|
PHY-30023 |
Particles, Accelerators and Reactor Physics |
O |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|
| Semester 1-2 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
#
|
PHY-30006 |
Astrophysics Group Project and Science Communication |
C |
C
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
Students carry out a major project as part of a team activity. Projects are attached to research group and involve development of data analysis and reporting skills.
6 hours laboratory |
|
|
PHY-30017 |
Dissertation |
C |
C
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
A core module for Astrophysics Majors.
Appreciation of the primary astrophysics literature, the relevance of presentation skills to science and an appreciation of the open-endedness of research. The assessment is based on a written dissertation and verbal presentation.
Only available to Physics with Astrophysics students.
8 hour tutorial guidance plus self-study. |
| Semester 2 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
|
PHY-30001 |
Cosmology |
O |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
Expansion of the universe; cosmic microwave background; structure in the universe; dark matter; inflation; relevance of particle physics to cosmology.
2 hour lecture per week and tutorial support |
|
|
PHY-30003 |
The Physics of Compact Objects |
O |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
Applications of statistical and quantum physics to stellar structure; white dwarf and neutron stars; pulsars (M15).
2 hour lecture and tutorial support |
|
|
PHY-30009 |
Quantum Physics of Atoms and Molecules |
O |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
Perturbation effects on atomic systems are analysed. The quantum mechanics of simple molecules is studied, including their vibrational and rotational characteristics. Some consideration is given to the general philosophical aspects of quantum theory.
2 hour lecture and tutorial support |
|
|
PHY-30010 |
Polymer Physics |
O |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
The nature and properties of (mainly) industrial polymers; structures and transitions; experimental techniques.
2 hour lecture and tutorial support |
|
|
PHY-30025 |
Life in the Universe |
O |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|
|
|
PHY-30026 |
Computational Methods in Physics and Astrophysics |
O |
C
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|
|
|
PHY-30027 |
Data Analysis and Model Testing |
O |
C
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|
Astrophysics Minor - Level 1 Modules
| Semester 1 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
|
PHY-10022 |
Mechanics, Gravity and Relativity |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
This level 1 module builds on A-level physics by taking the familiar subject of mechanics, but integrating it into calculus-based mathematics, thus laying the foundation for physics and astrophysics degrees. The module develops skills in applying physical principles and mathematical techniques to physical and astrophysical situations, and to laboratory based experiments. |
|
|
PHY-10024 |
Nature of matter |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
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). |
| Semester 2 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
|
PHY-10020 |
Oscillations and Waves |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
This Level 1 module runs in the second semester. It explores the physical principles and mathematical description of oscillatory and wave phenomena, which find application in many areas of classical and modern physics and astrophysics. The module requires a firm grasp of material covered in Level 1 Mechanics, and it sets the stage for the treatment of more advanced topics in optics, quantum mechanics, and electromagnetism at Levels 2 and 3. A mathematics component is included, in which fundamental techniques routinely used in physics are taught and practised. There is also a laboratory component, which involves bench work, computing and communication exercises.
|
|
|
PHY-10023 |
Electricity and Stellar Structure |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
This level 1 module examines one of the fundamental forces of physics, electromagnetism, developing an understanding of how this applies to widespread physical processes.
The course then turns to stars, showing that the physical laws studied in the course so far can be applied straightforwardly to stars, showing why stars behave and evolve as they do, thus developing an understanding of this most ubiquitous of astrophysical objects. |
Astrophysics Minor - Level 2 Modules
| Semester 1 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
|
PHY-20006 |
Quantum Mechanics |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|
|
|
PHY-20027 |
Optics and Thermodynamics |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|
| Semester 2 |
C/O |
TYP |
ECTS | CATS |
|
|
PHY-20002 |
Stellar Astrophysics |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
An understanding of the effect of physical processes on the structure and evolution of stars. Nuclear processes in stars and stellar evolution. The origin of elements in stars.
2 hour lecture & one general tutorial per week, plus astrophysics skills |
|
|
PHY-20022 |
Astrophysics - Study Abroad III |
O |
C
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
Details of this module will depend on the Overseas University and the modules chosen at this institution, and this will be discussed on an individual basis between the student and the School's Study Abroad tutor. |
|
|
PHY-20023 |
Astrophysics - Study Abroad IV |
O |
C
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
Details of this module will depend on the Overseas University and the modules chosen at this institution, and this will be discussed on an individual basis between the student and the School's Study Abroad tutor. |
|
|
PHY-20026 |
Statistical Mechanics and Solid State Physics |
C |
M
|
7.5 |
15 |
|
|
|