SPA4402 Modern Physics SEM 2 4 15
Overlap :None
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None
Prerequisite of: SPA5241; SPA5666; SPA6309

Description: This module covers the dramatic developments in physics that occurred in the early twentieth century, introducing special and general relativity and quantum theory. In relativistic mechanics we will study special relativity; the Lorentz transformation; length contraction and time dilation; the clock paradox; relativistic kinematics and dynamics; general relativity and its tests and consequences; and black holes and galactic lenses. In quantum theory, we will study descriptions of the evidence for particle-like properties of waves, and wave-like properties of particles, followed by their consequences and their formal expression in physical law: topics include Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, Schrodinger's equation and elementary quantum mechanics. We will also introduce the fundamental particles and the forces of the standard model of particle physics.

Assessment: 80% Examination and 20% Coursework

Level: 4
SPA4601 Professional Skills for Scientists SEM 1 4 15
Overlap: None
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

QMUL Model themes supported:

    Multi- and inter-disciplinariy
    Networking

QMUL Model learning outcomes:

Students will be able to identify and discuss their own career aspirations or relevant skills and knowledge and how they impact on others.
Students will be able to demonstrate connections between different theoretical perspectives within your discipline.

Description: This module develops professional and computational skills that are fundamental to the discipline, enable student engagement with employers, and expand student networks. Students develop introductory computational skills including using and writing computer programs to model physical systems, analyse quantitative data, and solve problems. These computational skills are applicable to any role that requires quantitative analysis and evidence-based decision making. Students will become proficient in preparing professional quality documents including scientific project reports, presentations and job application materials.

Assessment: 75% Coursework and 25% Practical

Level: 4
SPA4122 Mathematical Techniques 2 SEM 2 4 15
Overlap: None
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None
Prerequisite of: SPA5241; SPA5666; SPA6309

Description: Further techniques of mathematics needed in the physical sciences. Complex numbers and hyperbolic functions. Polar and spherical coordinates and coordinate transformations. Multiple integrals. Line and surface integrals. Vector calculus. The theorems of Gauss, Green and Stokes. Matrices. Determinants. Eigenvalues and eigenvectors. Fourier series and transforms including the convolution theorem. Differential equations. Exercise classes enable the students to learn practical approaches to problem solving while applying the concepts and techniques introduced in lectures.

Assessment: 80% Examination and 20% Coursework

Level: 4
SPA4101 Our Universe SEM 2 4 15
Overlap: None
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None
Prerequisite of: SPA5241; SPA5666; SPA6309

Description: Further techniques of mathematics needed in the physical sciences. Complex numbers and hyperbolic functions. Polar and spherical coordinates and coordinate transformations. Multiple integrals. Line and surface integrals. Vector calculus. The theorems of Gauss, Green and Stokes. Matrices. Determinants. Eigenvalues and eigenvectors. Fourier series and transforms including the convolution theorem. Differential equations. Exercise classes enable the students to learn practical approaches to problem solving while applying the concepts and techniques introduced in lectures.

Assessment: 80% Examination and 20% Coursework

Level: 4
SPA5307 Stars SEM 2 5
15
Overlap :None
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: None

Description: Stars are a vital building block in the Universe: forming out of interstellar gas and dust, and themselves being a major component of galaxies. They are also vital for providing the nuclear reactions that create the elements from which planets and even ourselves are formed. This course describes how the fundamental properties of stars are related to observations. Temperatures and densities in the centre of stars reach values that are unattainable in the laboratory. Yet the application of basic physical principles can help us determine much about the internal structure and evolution of stars, from their formation to their ultimate end states in such exotic and spectacular objects as white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes.

Assessment: 90% Examination and 10% Coursework

Level: 5
SPA6306 Elementary Particle Physics SEM 1 6 15
Overlap: None
Prerequisite: SPA5319 or equivalent introductory course in quantum physics
Corequisite: None

Description: An introduction to the standard model of particle physics - the strong and electroweak interactions between the basic constituents of the world, quarks and leptons, via the exchange of gluons, photons and W and Z particles. Recent results on CP violation and neutrino mixing. The search for the Higgs particle. Beyond the standard model - Grand unified theories and supersymmetry.

Assessment: 80% Examination and 20% Coursework

Level: 6
SPA6306 Elementary Particle Physics SEM 1 6 15
Overlap: None
Prerequisite: SPA5319 or equivalent introductory course in quantum physics
Corequisite: None

Description: An introduction to the standard model of particle physics - the strong and electroweak interactions between the basic constituents of the world, quarks and leptons, via the exchange of gluons, photons and W and Z particles. Recent results on CP violation and neutrino mixing. The search for the Higgs particle. Beyond the standard model - Grand unified theories and supersymmetry.

Assessment: 80% Examination and 20% Coursework

Level: 6
SPA6311 Physical Cosmology SEM 2 6 15
Overlap: SPA7005
Prerequisite: Ideally SPA6308
Corequisite: None
Prerequisite of: SPA7028U

Description: his module covers the essential concepts of modern cosmology, and in particular introduces the student to what has become known as the ""cosmological standard model"". It discusses the structure and properties of the universe as we observe it today, its evolution and the the underlying physical concepts, and the observations that formed our understanding of the universe.

Assessment: 80% Examination and 20% Coursework

Level: 6
Last modified: Wednesday, 19 December 2018, 3:15 PM