Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives The aim of this subject is to introduce students to some of the basic physics that underpins a modern university Physics course. Practical skills associated with experimental physics are also emphasised during the practical sessions. At the successful conclusion of this subject students will be able to understand a range of fundamental concepts from the core units of nuclear physics and solid state physics (lattice and electronic properties); apply a series of theoretical techniques within this subject core; extend mastery of this core to related subject areas of knowledge of particular interest to the student; perform a series of measurements on experiments related to the above topics; write up experimental reports presenting results and analysing and discussing them; present a short seminar on the results of a laboratory experiment.
Synopsis This subject, taken in conjunction with PHS3011, is designed for students wishing to devote the whole of their third year to the study of physics. The compulsory units are `Nuclear physics' and `Solid state physics (lattice and electronic properties)'. The remaining six units may be chosen from the list of units offered in second semester. In some cases units from other departments, including the `Magnetic properties' unit from MSC3022, may be included in the choice but they may not exceed the equivalent of two lecture units. Students who intend taking honours physics in their fourth year must take the `Quantum mechanics' unit.
Assessment Examinations (8 x 1.5 hours): 67% + Laboratory work: 33%