Module manager: Dr Alison Voice
Email: A.M.Voice@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2024/25
GCSE in Mathematics or equivalent
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module covers the topics of waves and particles at a level and detail equivalent to A Level. A fundamental understanding of vibrations and waves is key to the further study of Physics and Engineering. Waves ae studied in the context of mechanical motion, sounds and light. The physics of small particles is also studied, and includes applications to nuclear physics, the photoelectric effect and electron-microscopy.
This module forms part of a package of four modules (PHYS0040, PHYS0016, PHYS0025 and PHYS0036) which will prepare students for entry to the level 1 of an appropriate degree programme.
Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge, understanding and application of:
1. Radioactive decay and simple nuclear transformations
2. Simple harmonic motion, with pendulum and spring as model systems
3. Progressive waves, diffraction and interference
4. Refractive index and critical angle
5. Simple wave-particle duality and photoelectric effect
Problem Solving in basic Physics
Structure of the atom; radioactivity; mass and energy, nuclear power.
Progressive waves; longitudinal and transverse waves; interference and diffraction; stationary waves; reflection and refraction.
The electromagnetic spectrum; photon model of electromagnetic radiation; the photoelectric effect; atomic energy levels, wave-particle duality.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 22 | 1 | 22 |
| Private study hours | 78 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 22 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 100 | ||
Reading, online study materials and examples
Worked examples and regular quizzes in class
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| In-course Assessment | Regular coursework | 20 |
| 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) (S2) | 2.0 Hrs 30 Mins | 80 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 80 | |
Students will have to complete an in-person exam at 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