PHY-30003 - Module Specification
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2023/24

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

Successful completion of Level 5 Physics/Astrophysics

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2023/24

This module describes the applications of the laws of physics to some of the most extreme objects in the universe - the compact remnants of stellar evolution; white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes. Students will learn how topics that they have already encountered, such as statistical physics, nuclear physics and quantum mechanics can be applied and used to understand the properties of materials at extremely high densities and where interactions involve all four forces of nature in (General) relativistic conditions.
The core of the module is understanding the behaviour of degenerate fermion gases at high densities - either electrons or neutrons. These properties are then used to study the structure of stars (white dwarfs and neutron stars) supported by these degenerate gases. We then move on to the study of properties that can be observed - masses, radii, temperatures, luminosities - and hence used to test these theoretical ideas. The latest observations of compact objects are described and the limits of our firm knowledge are encountered. The last part of the module serves as an introduction to the study of stars in General relativity through the spherically symmetric Schwarzschild metric. This is used to derive the basic properties of black holes and explain phenomena such as the event horizon and gravitational redshift.
This optional core module is available to students in level 6 of any of the Physics or Astrophysics degree programmes. Successful completion of level 5 in Physics or Astrophysics is the only entry requirement.

To develop an understanding of the laws of quantum, nuclear and statistical physics to stellar sized compact stars - i.e. White Dwarfs and Neutron Stars.

Intended Learning Outcomes

outline the basic principles and laws governing the physics of degenerate gases, white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes; will be achieved by assessments: 1,2
apply physical theories and models in interpreting observations and performing calculations relating to compact stellar remnants; will be achieved by assessments: 1,2
use computer programs to solve problems relating to the structure and behaviour of compact stellar remnants; will be achieved by assessments: 1
interpret research literature in the context of the principles and laws of physics governing the behaviour of Compact Objects. will be achieved by assessments: 1

Study hours

24 hours lecture attendance
2 hours exam
12 hours tutorial attendance
40 hours problem sheets
72 hours private study

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment