BSc Hons Physics

This class is an introduction to working in a laboratory environment. You'll undertake experiments related to the taught components of the first year physics curriculum, learning how to use standard equipment and handle experimental uncertainties.

We will introduce you to the mathematics necessary to support the physics curriculum. The classes will cover topics ranging from differentiation and integration, complex numbers, an introduction to linear algebra and vectors.

Here you will start to use Python to write simple programmes to model physical systems. To enhance your programming skills you will complete a group project and use the output from this project to develop communication skills by preparing a poster presentation. You will also start to develop employability skills.

This class is an extension of Experimental Physics from year 1. You'll undertake more complex experiments that are related to the taught components of the second-year curriculum. You'll see the statistical origin for experimental uncertainties.

This class builds on Mechanics and Waves from year 1. You'll be introduced to special relativity, the vector treatment of rotational motion and the behaviour of systems when forced to oscillate. To extend your understanding of wave phenomena you'll be introduced to the wave equation, Fresnel and Fraunhofer diffraction and the operation of lasers.

This class builds on the material you learned in year 1. you'll be introduced to the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics and you'll develop a vector model of electromagnetism.

The topics covered in these classes will extend the mathematics seen in first year. You will cover many different topics including probability distributions, ordinary and partial differential equations, and Fourier series and transforms.

In this class you will build on the Python programming seen in year 1 and be introduced to a range of computational techniques that will make modelling and solving physical system straightforward. Again there will be a group project which will be used to enhance your skills and there will be further interactions with the Careers Service.

This module extends the laboratory work developed in years 1 and 2. The laboratory work is open ended so you're able to fully explore the experiments in preparation for the final year project.

Building on what you learned in year 2, this module will extend your understanding of quantum mechanics. We'll introduce advanced concepts like time independent perturbation theory and electromagnetism by exploring the wave like nature of electromagnetism as predicted by Maxwell's equations.

Here you'll cover condensed matter physics and be introduced to concepts such as the Fermi surface, superconductors, phonons and other forms of collective excitations.

This module covers the physics of gases and liquids and the fundamentals of thermodynamics. We also present various distributions such as Maxwellian, Fermi-Dirac and Bose-Einstein.

This module will develop your knowledge base and transferable skills in preparation for the project undertaken in years 4 and 5 of the course. It focuses on effective and concise communication of complex information through oral, written and graphical presentations, literature and group-work skills.

During this module, you’ll be introduced to the best practises in software development, and the numerical methods that are most commonly used to solve physical problems.

This module will teach you mathematical problem-solving techniques to aid in solving physics problems from quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics and thermal physics, solid state physics and electrodynamics.

The aim of this module is to help you develop as an enquiring, independent physicist, by undertaking a project. You'll be under the supervision of a member of staff from the department.

In this module, you’ll be introduced to nanoscience. Specifically, the course will address concepts relating to Nanoparticle production, characterisation and structure before progressing to the physics associated with molecular nanoscience. It will include molecular forces and the techniques used to investigate these forces.

During this module you'll gain an insight into laser physics, laser optics and nonlinear optics as used in many photonic laboratories.

During this module we'll present the ideas and concepts associated with complexity physics and to the use of computer simulations to demonstrate these processes.

In this module we’ll demonstrate the large scale structure of space-time.

Here you'll learn about modern experimental and theoretical developments in the field of quantum optics and atom optics.