Module Information

Module Identifier
PH34610
Module Title
Galaxies
Academic Year
2017/2018
Co-ordinator
Semester
Semester 1
Pre-Requisite
PH24610
Other Staff

Course Delivery

Delivery Type Delivery length / details
Lecture 22 x 1 Hour Lectures
 

Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Exam 2 Hours   Written Examination  70%
Semester Assessment 4 Coursework assignments  30%
Supplementary Exam 2 Hours   100%

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

1. Classify the main galaxy types.
2. Describe the evolution of the main galaxy types.
3. Describe the essential morphological, dynamical, and chemical properties of galaxies in the local Universe.
4. Present a knowledge of the simple physics of galactic systems.
5. Summarise the key processes involved in Active Galactic Nuclei.

Brief description

The course provides an overview to galactic astrophysics, considering galactic formation, dynamics and evolution.

Content

The physical properties, structure and morphology of the galaxies are studied. The subject of galactic dynamics is introduced.

The development of different branches of astronomy, such as radio, x-ray and y-ray astronomy has greatly enlarged the radius of the observable Universe and uncovered many strange objects that have provided a major stimulus to the whole of physics.

The kinetics of galactic rotation indicates the controlling influence of hidden mass distributed throughout a volume of space much larger than the limits of the Galaxy previously imagined.

The presence of hidden mass is also indicated by the kinetics of clusters of galaxies. The accretion of mass under the pull of a strong central gravitational field, possibly centred on a black hole, is thought to provide the energy to fuel quasars and radio galaxies.

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Application of Number The majority of questions in the assignments and formal examinations will contain numerical problems.
Communication Written communication is developed via the coursework.
Improving own Learning and Performance Coursework is used in order that students might reflect on their progress during the module.
Information Technology Students will be required to research topics within the module via the internet.
Personal Development and Career planning The module will highlight the latest developments in this field and hence will assist with career development. Analytical skills have wide applicability.
Problem solving Problem solving is a key skill in physics and will be tested via the problem questions posed in the coursework and examination.
Research skills Students are required to research topics relevant to the module.

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 6