2024/25 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

PHAS0020 Waves and Particles

10 creditsClass Size: 100

Module manager: Dr Alison Voice
Email: A.M.Voice@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2024/25

Pre-requisite qualifications

GCSE in Mathematics or equivalent

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

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.

Objectives

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.

Learning outcomes
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

Skills outcomes
Problem Solving in basic Physics

Syllabus

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.

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Lecture	22	1.00	22.00
Private study hours			78.00
Total Contact hours			22.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			100.00

Private study

Reading, online study materials and examples

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Worked examples and regular quizzes in class

Methods of assessment

Coursework

Assessment type	Notes	% of formal assessment
In-course Assessment	Regular coursework	20.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)		20.00

Resits will be in standard exam format.

Exams

Exam type	Exam duration	% of formal assessment
Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc) (S2)	2 hr 30 mins	80.00
Total percentage (Assessment Exams)		80.00

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.

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 25/03/2024 15:09:30

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