2024/25 Undergraduate Module Catalogue
PHAS0010 Thermal and Materials Physics
10 creditsClass Size: 125
Module manager: Dr Charley Shaefer
Email: C.Schaefer@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2024/25
Pre-requisite qualifications
- GCSE in Mathematics and Science-Physics or- GCSE in Mathematics and Science.
Module replaces
PHYS0016 Thermal and Material PhysicsThis module is not approved as a discovery module
Module summary
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.Objectives
Learning outcomes
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
Skills outcomes
Problem Solving in basic Physics:
- The ability to model a physical problem.
- The ability to solve physical problems using mathematics.
Syllabus
- 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
Teaching methods
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
| Workshop | 10 | 1.00 | 10.00 |
| Lecture | 20 | 1.00 | 20.00 |
| Private study hours | 70.00 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 30.00 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 100.00 | ||
Private study
Reading, online study materials and examples: 70 hours.Opportunities for Formative Feedback
Workshops and regular Top Hat quizzesMethods of assessment
Coursework
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
| Assignment | Coursework | 10.00 |
| Assignment | Coursework | 10.00 |
| 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) | 3 hr 150 mins | 80.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 80.00 | |
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.
Reading list
The reading list is available from the Library websiteLast updated: 15/01/2025
Browse Other Catalogues
- Undergraduate module catalogue
- Taught Postgraduate module catalogue
- Undergraduate programme catalogue
- Taught Postgraduate programme catalogue
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team.PROD