University of St Andrews - Scotland's first university, founded 1413

Module Catalogue

For information on which modules are specific to your programme, please see : Programme requirements index 2017-2018.

Curricular information may be subject to change.

PH2011 Physics 2A

Academic year(s): 2017-2018

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 8

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: 10.00 am lectures; one problem solving workshop and lab chosen from Tue, Thu or Fri (2.00 pm - 5.30 pm); one tutorial to be arranged.

This module covers the subjects of mechanics, special relativity, oscillations, and thermal physics. It is suitable for those who have taken the specified first year modules in physics and mathematics, or have good Advanced Higher or A-level passes or equivalent in physics and mathematics. It includes lectures on the dynamics of particles and rigid bodies, Einstein's special theory of relativity, free, forced and damped harmonic motion, and lectures on thermal physics including elementary thermodynamics and the notion of entropy.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): "Students should also have passed PH1011, PH1012 and MT1002 or have passes in Advanced Higher Physics and Mathematics or A-Level Physics and Mathematics, both normally at grade A or equivalent."

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take AS1002

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 4 or 5 lectures, 1 workshop, 1 tutorial and 1 x 2.5-hour laboratory.

Scheduled learning hours: 97

Guided independent study hours: 203

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 3-hour Written Examination = 60%, Class Test = 10%, Laboratory work = 25%, lectures and pre-lecture questions = 5%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 70%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 30%

Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Resit Examination = 60%, combined with existing Class Test = 10%, Laboratory Work = 25%, and lecture and pre-lecture questions = 5%.

Personnel

Module teaching staff: Dr P Cruickshank, Dr G Smith, Prof S Lee, Dr C Baily, Dr I Leonhardt, Dr C Rae

Additional information from school

Please see also the information in the School’s Handbook for First and Second Level modules available via https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/physics/staff_students/timetables.php. This link also gives access to timetables for such modules.