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PH1501   Mathematics for Physicists 1A

Academic year(s): 2019-2020

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 7

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: Available only to those on the Physics and Astronomy (Gateway) Programme and the Physics and Astronomy International Gateway Programme.

Planned timetable: To be arranged.

This module is designed to give physics students a secure base in elementary calculus and other mathematical tools to enable them to access the mathematics modules needed for progression into physics and astronomy degrees. Participants will learn to use this mathematics effectively and efficiently in the context of work in physics. Some of the work is a revision and practice of material that will normally have been seen in the Scottish Higher and some A-Level maths syllabuses. The content is similar to that in MT1001 and will allow students to progress to MT1002 in semester 2.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Students must have gained entry to Physics and Astronomy (Gateway) or International Gateway programmes.

Co-requisite(s): You must also take PH1011 and take PH1502

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take MT1001

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 5 lectures, 1 tutorial and 1 workshop.

Scheduled learning hours: 72

Guided independent study hours: 128

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework (Class Tests, 20%, Other Coursework,30%) = 50%

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

Re-assessment: 2-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr I Leonhardt
Module teaching staff: Dr I Leonhardt

Additional information from school

Learning Outcomes

Students who take PH1501 should develop a sound mathematics toolbox that will be used throughout a Physics degree.

 

Synopsis

Algebra: Recap of basic algebraic methods including solving equations and inequalities, manipulating algebraic and trigonometric expressions; proving trigonometric identities.

 

Functions: define a function and its inverse, define the exponential and logarithm functions; understand the idea of the limit of a function and apply it to the concept of continuity.

 

Sequences: manipulate arithmetic, geometric sequences; determine is a series converges or diverges.

 

Differentiation: differentiate polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric and inverse trigonometric functions; use rules to differentiate products, quotients and functions of a function; calculate higher derivatives; use differentiation to assist in the sketching of curves and in the determination of maxima and minima.

 

Integration: calculate indefinite and definite integrals using standard integrals; integration by substitution, by parts and by partial fractions; evaluate areas under curves using trigonometry.

 

 

Recommended Books

Please view University online record:

http://resourcelists.st-andrews.ac.uk/modules/ph1501.html

 

General Information

Please also read the additional information in the School's handbook for 1st and 2nd level modules that is available via st-andrews.ac.uk/physics/staff_students/timetables.php.