Module Identifier PH10310  
Module Title PHYSICS OF MATTER  
Academic Year 2003/2004  
Co-ordinator Dr Sian A Jones  
Semester Semester 1  
Other staff Dr Geraint O Thomas  
Pre-Requisite A Level Maths  
Co-Requisite PH16020  
Mutually Exclusive PH03010  
Course delivery Lecture   20 Lectures  
  Seminars / Tutorials   3  
Assessment
Assessment TypeAssessment Length/DetailsProportion
Semester Exam2 Hours  70%
Semester Assessment COURSE WORK: 2 TESTS ( 1 HOUR EACH), 3 EXAMPLE SHEETS  30%
Supplementary Exam2 Hours   

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:
Demonstrate knowledge of the structure of the atom and electron energy levels.

Describe types of bonds between atoms and molecules, and their relative strengths.

Describe the structures and properties of solids, liquids and gases.

Describe the thermal properties of solids, liquids and gases.

Calculate the effects of stresses on solids.

Use the concept of an ideal gas to apply the gas laws and equation of state to real problems.

Explain the effects of heat and work on matter using the First Law of Thermodynamics.

Perform calculations related to the First Law of Thermodynamics.

Brief description

Matter consists of atoms and molecules in solid, liquid or gas phase. The structure and size of atoms - protons, neutrons and electrons are first discussed. Quantisation of energy and ionisation potential. Molecular strcutre is discussed with emphasis on the types of bonding between atoms and molecules. The influences of temperature on the properties of matter is then considered. The behaviour of solids undergoing stress and strain. A simple model of an ideal gas as a collection of hard spheres is shown to lead to an understanding of transport properties of gases and deviations from idela behaviour. Properties of gases are examined from the point of view of the First Law of Thermodynamics.

Reading Lists

Books
** Recommended Text
M. Nelkon and P. Parker Advanced Level Physics Heinemann Educational 0435686682

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 4