2024/25 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

LLLC0185 Physics: Waves and Particles

10 Credits Class Size: 60

Module manager: Jordan Thirlwell
Email: J.J.Thirlwall@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2024/25

Pre-requisites

LLLC0203 Introduction to Physics

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module aims to develop the students understanding of the physical properties of waves and the phenomenon which led to the current model of the atom and modern physics, using theoretical descriptions, demonstrations and worked examples.

Objectives

Throughout this module students will be given lots of opportunities to develop their own problem-solving skills and learn how to apply the theories introduced to simple real-life situations. These will cover a diverse range of topics, from earthquakes to nuclear reactions that power the sun. This module will therefore provide students with a chance to learn concepts and skills, which can be applied to a variety of Science and Engineering degree programmes.

Learning outcomes

1. Identify the relevant physical laws that govern fundamental physical phenomena

2. Present physical ideas in the area of waves and particles using appropriate scientific language, mathematical notation and diagrams

3. Model a physical problem and formulate a mathematical solution to describe different physical phenomena

4. Describe, explain and interpret results in physics terms related to the area of waves and particles

5. Relate physics concepts learnt to applications in different disciplines and areas

Skills outcomes

Ability to model and solve physical problems using mathematics; data analysis and interpretation; scientific communication in physics terms; familiarity with mathematical notation and its application in physics problems; application of topics learnt to different areas and fields.

Syllabus

The content will be delivered through lectures and workshops and will cover areas such as… 

- Introduction to waves

- Refraction, reflection and transmission

- Superposition of waves and interference

- Diffraction

- Introduction to particles

- Wave-particle duality

- Atomic structure

- Particles and radiation

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
seminars 10 1 10
Lecture 10 2 20
Independent online learning hours 10
Private study hours 60
Total Contact hours 30
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 100

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Formative feedback will be given during in class activities and exercises, where the students will have the chance to work individually or in group, as well as via completion of online assignments and individual submission of problem set solutions.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework
Assessment type Notes % of formal assessment
Multimodal Assessment Combination of short and long answer questions. Assessment may involve solving problems or submission of revision style resources across different platforms 40
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) 40

Coursework will be released and submitted as a single assessment; however, students will be encouraged to tackle problems as the relevant material is covered, on a week-by-week basis.

Exams
Exam type Exam duration % of formal assessment
Unseen exam 2.0 Hrs 0 Mins 60
Total percentage (Assessment Exams) 60

Exam resits will have the same format and methods of assessment of the first attempt, and the students will be able to resit during the July Resit period, or at the next available opportunity.

Reading List

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 4/29/2024

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team