Module Information

Module Identifier
PH11010
Module Title
Classical Physics
Academic Year
2022/2023
Co-ordinator
Semester
Semester 1
Pre-Requisite
A Level Physics and Mathematics or equivalent
Exclusive (Any Acad Year)
Other Staff

Course Delivery

 

Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Assessment Continuous Assessment Selected Questions  30%
Semester Exam 2 Hours   Written Examination  70%
Supplementary Exam 2 Hours   Written Examination  100%

Learning Outcomes

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

1. Demonstrate the principles of the zeroth and first laws of thermodynamics and apply these to solve associated problems.
2. Demonstrate the principles of the kinetic theory of gases and apply these to solve associated problems.
3. Describe wave propagation in mathematical notation and understand its applications.
4. Employ the basic principles of geometric and physical optics and describe their uses in optical instruments and techniques.
5. Explain diffraction and the limits to resolution for optical instruments.

Brief description

The thermal physics component of this module deals with processes related to the conversion of heat to work and vice versa. The thermal processes can be understood both on the macroscopic scale and the atomic level. The zeroth and first laws of thermodynamics and concepts of heat and work are introduced by considering the gas system. The microscopic approach of kinetic theory is introduced.
Optics is one of the most successful branches of classical physics and applications occur throughout technology, ranging from microscopy to photonics. This course gives the basic theory of waves, geometrical and physical optics. Applications of these in modern technology are discussed.

Aims

The module introduces thermal physics with discussion of macroscopic and microscopic processes. It also develops the principles and techniques of geometrical optics and the wave nature of light. Emphasis is placed on the solution of problems through example sheets that include numerical exercises. This module is a core module for honours degree schemes in physics and prepares the student for use of the topics in the more advance studies of Part 2.

Content

THERMAL PHYSICS
1. Solids: elastic deformation, thermal expansion.
2. Ideal gas: state variables, change of state, equation of state, ideal gas law.
3. Zeroth law of thermodynamics: thermal equilibrium, temperature and temperature scales.
4. First law of thermodynamics: internal energy, heat, work; isothermal isobaric and adiabatic processes; heat capacity and latent heat.
5. Kinetic theory of gases: derivation of pressure from mechanical reasoning; Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution; rms-mean-probable speed; temperature and population of energy levels.

WAVES
1. Travelling waves: wavelength, frequency, phase velocity, group velocity.
2. Examples: waves on string, sound waves, electromagnetic waves.
3. Wave phenomena: superposition of waves, Doppler effect.
4. Wave equation.

OPTICAL AND WAVE NATURE OF LIGHT
1. Geometric and physical optics and their use in optical instruments and techniques.
2. Dispersion, interference, diffraction (single and multiple slits).
3. Limits to resolution for optical instruments.

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Application of Number All questions set in example sheets and formal exams have numerical problems.
Improving own Learning and Performance Lectures and Workshops are designed to encourage self-directed learning and improve performance. This is to be assessed via example sheets.
Information Technology Students will be expected to research topics within the module via the internet.
Personal Development and Career planning The module will highlight the latest technological developments in these fields and will contribute to career development.
Problem solving Problem solving skills are developed throughout this module and tested in assignments and in the written examination.
Research skills Directed reading will allow students to explore the background to the lecture modules. Students will also be set problems in lectures which will entail research in library and over the internet.

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 4