PHY-10035 - Module Specification
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2025/26

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2025/26

A fundamental understanding of physical principles follows from investigating the composition and movement of matter through space and time. You will find out how the universe is put together, from the very big to the very small, exploring motions on scales from atoms and molecules to stars and planets, and encounter the boundaries of classical Newtonian physics with an introduction to quantum ideas and Einstein’s Special Relativity.

This module introduces physical concepts related to gravity, relativity, and the nature of matter at a level suitable for a Level 4 physics or astrophysics student. It builds on students’ existing knowledge of these concepts and lays foundations for further study of these subjects later in the physics and astrophysics degrees. Concepts covered include an understanding of gravity as a fundamental force, the impact of special relativity in the description of the Universe, and the nature of solid and gaseous matter including both the classical picture and an introduction to the quantum description of matter.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Recall and describe the fundamental concepts of Newtonian gravity, special relativity, and the nature of matter.: 1,2
Formulate and tackle problems relevant to gravity, relativity, and the nature of matter, applying fundamental mathematical techniques.: 1,2
Interpret results relevant to gravity, relativity, and the nature of matter.: 1,2

Study hours

Active Learning Hours:
24 hours of lectures/seminars
24 hours of tutorials/practical sessions
Independent Learning Hours:
2.5-hour exam
30 hours working on exercises
69 hours private study

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment