Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives As for PHS2011 or PHS2311.
Synopsis This subject consists of two units from either PHS2011 or PHS2311 to allow students to study the maximum physics and applied physics material in first semester. The two units are either `Introduction to quantum mechanics' and `AC theory', or `Principles of instrumentation' and `Digital electronics and microprocessors'. Students who have the necessary prerequisites may take any two units from PHS2011 and PHS2311 as a terminal subject. Students who have completed PHS1031 and PHS1042 and wish to continue studies in biophysics may take the following two units. (1) Biophysical modelling: Modelling of electrical, structural, optical, audio and thermodynamic systems; linear and non-linear processes in complex systems, introduction to coupled systems which are oscillatory, bifurcating or chaotic; electrical behaviour of biological systems, Laplace's equation, diffusion and properties of system models; interaction of electromagnetic radiation and other radiation/emanations with living systems with particular emphasis on microwaves and ionising radiation and safety aspects; modelling brain function and neural networks. (2) Energy flows and nature's metabolism: Energy, work, power, forms of energy, energy resources, energy storage, energy conversion and efficiency; nature of thermal energy and heat energy flow; energy and phase changes, enthalpy, free energy, entropy and thermodynamic cycles, engines and refrigerators; electrochemical energy conversion and fuel cells; solar radiation and variability, emission, absorption and reflection, energy and the biosphere, food chains and ecology, biomass, fossil fuels, the carbon cycle and the greenhouse effect; body metabolism, heat regulation, the physics of clothing and shelter.
Assessment Examinations: (2 x 1.5 hours): 67% + Laboratory work: 33%