Module manager: Thomas Whale
Email: t.f.whale@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
A level in Physics or SOEE1541
| SOEE1541 | Foundation Physics |
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module provides a solid foundation in the physical processes that govern the structure and behaviour of Earth's atmosphere. The module covers the basic physics necessary to understand temperature variations in the atmosphere, aerosol and cloud formation, solar and terrestrial radiation, the greenhouse effect and optical effects in the atmosphere. This is a quantitative module designed to provide students with problem-solving skills. An emphasis is put on the understanding of natural phenomena in terms of basic physics and applications of basic physics to real problems is stressed throughout the module. Students will exercise their knowledge through a series of numerical, descriptive and graphical problems. Students will also develop skills in reporting scientific findings in a concise and accurate manner through computer project reports.
You will gain a solid foundation in the physical processes that govern the structure and behaviour of the Earth's atmosphere. By the end of this module you will have an understanding of the thermodynamics of the atmosphere, atmospheric phase changes of water, aerosol growth, cloud formation, the behaviour of light in the atmosphere, and the effects of greenhouse gases and aerosols in climate change. An emphasis is put on the understanding of natural phenomena in terms of basic physics and applications of basic physics to real problems is stressed at all points.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes:
SSLO1. Understand the physical processes that govern the baseline structure and behaviour of Earth's atmosphere.
SSLO2. Explain transient optical and physical phenomena in the atmosphere in terms of physical processes.
SSLO3. Perform quantitative calculations describing physical processes in the atmosphere.
SSLO4. Solve scientific problems and present answers in the form of equations, graphs and written descriptions.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
SKLO1: Apply mathematical and physical principles to analyse complex scenarios in atmospheric processes and physics, solving quantitative problems using appropriate scientific methods. (Academic skills – assessed via exam and coursework)
SKLO2: Use digital tools and computational techniques to process, visualise, and interpret atmospheric data in a scientific context. (Digital skills – assessed via coursework)
SKLO3: Communicate scientific concepts and findings effectively in written formats, using appropriate structure, terminology, and evidence (Work ready Skills – assessed via coursework)
SKLO4: Demonstrate independent learning and time management, completing tasks to deadline and reflecting on progress and understanding. (Work ready skills – assessed via coursework and exam preparation)
SKLO5: Explain the relevance of atmospheric science to global sustainability challenges, including climate change and environmental impact. (Sustainability – embedded in module content)
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lectures | 11 | 1 | 11 |
| Seminars | 11 | 1 | 11 |
| Private study hours | 78 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 22 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 100 | ||
Weekly question sheets requiring private study. Students submit answers through Tophat and get feedback (correct/incorrect and opportunity to resubmit). We provide written feedback on a selection of their written answers to improve the structure and layout of their answers and to correct errors. A dedicated feedback session (1 hour/week) involves going through all questions and highlighting common problems.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Coursework | 30 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 30 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc) (S2) | 1.0 Hrs 30 Mins | 70 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 70 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
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