University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 7

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: In the event of over-subscription, places will be given to students who require the module for their programme, and students on supported pathway or visiting programmes with the correct pre-requisites. If spaces are available at the end of the main advising period (after Wednesday in Orientation Week), a random ballot will be conducted for students selecting the module as an option.

Planned timetable: 12:00 One afternoon, 15:00 - 17:30

This module covers the core subjects of mechanics, waves and optics, and also provides an overview of the physical properties of matter. It is suitable for those who have studied physics to the level of Higher Physics or equivalent. It includes lectures on Newton's laws, work and energy, simple harmonic motion, the different types of wave motion, geometrical and wave optics, and the nature and composition of nuclei, atoms, molecules and solids, and their interactions. Relevant laboratory work is an important part of the module.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Students must have Higher or A-Level physics and mathematics (both at grade B or better), or equivalent.. This module has availability restrictions indicated in the 2025-26 Module catalogue. You should ensure you understand the availability restrictions before selecting this module.

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

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 4 x 1hr lectures x 10 weeks, 1hr problem-solving workshop x 9 weeks, 1hr tutorial x 9 weeks, and 2.5 hr lab work x 9 weeks

Scheduled learning hours: 80

Guided independent study hours: 120

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Written Examination = 60%, Coursework = 40%


Re-assessment: Written Examination = 60%, Coursework = 40%

Personnel

Module teaching staff: Dr Bruce Sinclair, Dr Lucy Hadfield, Dr Janet Lovett

Intended learning outcomes

• Demonstrate knowledge and conceptual understanding of the topics covered in the module (waves and optics, mechanics, properties of matter, laboratory investigations)
• Demonstrate an ability to model real-world problems using physical concepts, and solve qualitative and quantitative problems
• Retrieve and evaluate relevant information from lectures, books, people, and other resources
• Communicate and discuss physics concepts
• Be competent in using some of the standard equipment in physics laboratories
• Be capable of designing experiments, analysing data, and drawing conclusions