Module manager: Dr Charley Shaefer
Email: C.Schaefer@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2024/25
- GCSE in Mathematics and Science-Physics or - GCSE in Mathematics and Science.
PHYS0016 Thermal and Material Physics
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module is designed for students who have not had the opportunity of an Advanced Level (A Level) education in Physics. This module covers the basics of Thermal and Materials Physics to an A Level equivalent standard. It forms part of a package of four modules (PHAS0001, PHAS0010, PHAS0020 and PHAS0030) which will prepare students for entry to the level 1 of an appropriate degree programme. The only prerequisite is GCSE level mathematics, or equivalent.
On successful completion of the module students will be able to demonstrate knowledge, understanding and application of:
1. The electronic structure of atoms and different types of atomic bond.
2. The structure and mechanical properties of a variety solids.
3. The mechanical properties of liquids.
4. The transfer of thermal energy and the First Law of Thermodynamics
5. The thermal properties of solids, liquids and gases
6. The ideal gas equation and the Kinetic Theory of gases
Problem Solving in basic Physics:
- The ability to model a physical problem.
- The ability to solve physical problems using mathematics.
- Properties of matter and the 3 states of matter
- Bonding
- Elastic properties and behaviour of materials
- Young's modulus.
- Pressure and forces in a liquid
- Internal energy and the First law of thermodynamics
- Thermal conduction and conductivity; convection and radiation
- Thermal expansion
- Properties of an ideal gas and the ideal gas equation
- The molar gas constant R and Avogadro's constant
- The relation between temperature and molecular kinetic energy, Boltzmann's constant
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Workshop | 10 | 1 | 10 |
| Lecture | 20 | 1 | 20 |
| Private study hours | 70 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 30 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 100 | ||
Reading, online study materials and examples: 70 hours.
Workshops and regular Top Hat quizzes
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Coursework | 10 |
| Assignment | Coursework | 10 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 20 | |
Resits will be in standard exam format.
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc) | 2.5 Hrs 150 Mins | 80 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 80 | |
Students will have to complete an in-person exam at the end of the module. This will take place during the examinations period at the end of the semester and will be time bound.
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 1/15/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team