Advanced Skills in Physics

Module Identifier
PHM6420
Module Title
Advanced Skills in Physics
Academic Year
2027/2028
Semester
Semester 1
Co-ordinator
Dr Tom Knight
Reading List
View on Aspire
Pre-Requisite

Students must be familiar with a programming language.
Exclusive (Any Acad Year)
FGM6420
Other Staff

Assessment

Assessment Type

Assessment details

Proportion
Semester Assessment Implementation Test: 1 Hours 15%
Semester Assessment Numerical Task: 4 Hours 25%
Semester Assessment Oral Communication Task: 2 Hours 30%
Semester Assessment 2 x Methodological Test: 2 Hours 30%
Supplementary Assessment Resubmission: 24 Hours Resubmission of failed element(s) as determined by the Departmental Examinations Board 100%

Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Utilise programming techniques to implement analytical solutions
  2. Demonstrate mastery of numerical techniques for modelling physical systems
  3. Demonstrate understanding of key numerical concepts for physical analysis
  4. Present complex ideas through written and oral discussion
  5. Critically evaluate scientific journal publications

Brief description

Contemporary research frequently requires the application of numerical methods to solve problems in physics. It also requires ability to communicate and present ideas and results clearly. This module combines the application of numerical techniques and communication methods to develop the underlying skills.

Aims

The module is to develop skills that are central in professional research. These include skills in applying numerical techniques to solve physics problems and skills required in research to present and communicate ideas and results.

Content

- Solving systems of linear equations using LU(P) decomposition
- Solving sparse systems of linear equations using iterative methods
- Approximating partial differential equations using finite difference methods
- Solving problems using Monte Carlo methods
- Simulation of statistical mechanical systems using metropolis Monte Carlo methods
- Presentation of numerical techniques and results
- Writing styles and oral presentation
- Analysis of journal papers and reports

Module skills

Skills type

Skills details
Co-ordinating with others Discussion, critical evaluation and problem solving throughout the module
Creative Problem Solving Throughout the module, particularly regarding application of numerical techniques to build physical models
Critical and analytical thinking Throughout the module
Digital capability Throughout the module
Professional communication Throughout the module
Reflection Inherent to analysis, and application of feedback
Subject Specific Skills Programming, numerical methods, communication (written and oral), critical analysis

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 7