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AS1101   Astrophysics (Direct Entry)

Academic year(s): 2019-2020

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 5

ECTS credits : 2

Level : SCQF level 7

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: Available only to Direct Second level Entry students in Physics or Astrophysics

Planned timetable: at 2 weeks) plus total of 2x2.5 hour afternoon practical sessions and 4x1 hour tutorials over the semester.

This module provides a streamlined introduction to the science of astrophysics for students who have taken direct entry to Second level and who are planning to take level two astrophysics later in the same academic session. It covers the essential items of observational astrophysics and how the radiation that is detected on Earth can be used to develop a physical model of the Sun, stars, planets, our Galaxy and external galaxies as well as the Universe as a whole. Topics will include stellar evolution, the rotation curves of galaxies and the need for Dark Matter as well as the expanding Universe, Dark Energy and cosmology.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Direct entry to level two at the University of St Andrews with a degree intention of astrophysics, physics, theoretical physics or a joint degree with one of these.

Co-requisite(s): You must also take PH2011

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take AS1001 or take AS1002 or take PH1501

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1.5-hour lecture (x 8 weeks), 2.5-hour practical work (x 2 weeks) 1-hour tutorial (x 4 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 23

Guided independent study hours: 27

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework (Class test = 50%, laboratory work = 25%, take-home exam = 15%, online quizzes = 10%) = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 75%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 25%

Re-assessment: 1-hour Written Examination = 75%, Existing Laboratory work = 25%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr R M Fernandes Tojeiro Reynolds
Module teaching staff: Dr R Tojeiro

Additional information from school

Aims & Objectives

The aim of this module is for students to obtain an elementary understanding of the structure of the observable Universe, and our position within it. We explore the physical content of the Universe, its structures and interactions. We discuss how properties of planets, stars and galaxies can be determined from observations, coupled with theoretical models based on physical principles. The module comprises 12 lectures on Elementary Astrophysics, Stars and Stellar Evolution, The Milky Way and other Galaxies, and Cosmology, and thereby provides a complete overview of the subject at this level.

 

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this module, students will have gained:

 

  • an understanding of the structure and evolution of the physical Universe
  • an ability to calculate astrophysical properties of celestial objects (e.g., planets, stars and galaxies) from (simplified) observations coupled with basic physical and mathematical models

 

Synopsis

(1)  Elementary Astrophysics

(2)  Stars and Stellar Evolution

(3)  The Milky Way and other Galaxies

(4)  Cosmology

 

 

Recommended Books

Please view University online record:

http://resourcelists.st-andrews.ac.uk/modules/as1101.html

 

General Information

Please also read the additional information in the School's handbook for first and second level modules that is available via st-andrews.ac.uk/physics/staff_students/timetables.php.