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AS5002   Magnetofluids and Space Plasmas

Academic year(s): 2018-2019

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: This module is intended for students in the final year of an MPhys or MSci programme involving the School, and for those on the Astrophysics MSc

Planned timetable: 10.00 am Tue, Wed, Thu

This module is aimed at both physics and astrophysics students with interests in the physics of plasmas. The interaction of a magnetic field with an ionized gas (or plasma) is fundamental to many problems in astrophysics, solar- terrestrial physics and efforts to harness fusion power using tokamaks. The syllabus comprises: Solar-like magnetic activity on other stars. The basic equations of magneto-hydrodynamics. Stellar coronae: X-ray properties and energetics of coronal loops. Energetics of magnetic field configurations. MHD waves and propagation of information. Solar and stellar dynamos: mean field models. Star formation: properties of magnetic cloud cores, magnetic support. Physics of accretion discs: transport of mass and angular momentum. Accretion on to compact objects and protostars. Rotation and magnetic fields in protostellar discs. Rotation distributions of young solar-type stars. Magnetic braking via a hot, magnetically channelled stellar wind.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass 1 module from {PH3007, MT4510, MT4553} and pass 1 module from {AS3013, PH4030, PH3080, MT3802, MT4112}

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 3 lectures or tutorials.

Scheduled learning hours: 32

Guided independent study hours: 118

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 100%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 0%

Re-assessment: Oral Re-assessment, capped at grade 7

Personnel

Module teaching staff: Prof M Jardine

Additional information from school

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