University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: 11.00 am Wed, 2.00 pm Tue, Fri (TBC)

This module introduces the theory and practice behind Monte Carlo radiation transport codes for use in physics, astrophysics, atmospheric physics, and medical physics. Included in the module: recap of basic radiation transfer; techniques for sampling from probability distribution functions; a simple isotropic scattering code; computing the radiation field, pressure, temperature, and ionisation structure; programming skills required to write Monte Carlo codes; code speed-up techniques and parallel computing; three-dimensional codes. The module assessment will be 100% continuous assessment comprising homework questions and small projects where students will write their own and modify existing Monte Carlo codes.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass PH2012 and pass at least 1 module from {AS3013, PH3080, PH3081, PH3082}. Prequisites are compulsory unless the student is on a Postgraduate Taught Programme

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 3 hours of lectures (x 6 weeks), 1-hour tutorials (x 5 weeks), during semester 3 x 3 hour supervised computer lab sessions

Scheduled learning hours: 32

Guided independent study hours: 118

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework (worksheets = 50%, 3-hour computing test = 25%, 1-hour Class Test = 25%) = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 25%
Practical examinations : 25%
Coursework: 50%

Re-assessment: No Re-assessment available - laboratory based

Personnel

Additional information from school

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