Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2011-2012 (archived)
Module MATH2071: MATHEMATICAL PHYSICS II
Department: Mathematical Sciences
MATH2071:
MATHEMATICAL PHYSICS II
Type |
Open |
Level |
2 |
Credits |
20 |
Availability |
Available in 2011/12 |
Module Cap |
None. |
Location |
Durham
|
Prerequisites
- [Core Mathematics A (MATH1012) and Core Mathematics B2
(MATH1041) [the latter may be a co-requisite]] OR [Core Mathematics A
(MATH1012) and Foundations of Physics I (PHYS1122).]
Corequisites
- Core Mathematics B2 (MATH1041) unless taken before, or
unless Foundations of Physics I (PHYS1122) has been taken
before.
Excluded Combination of Modules
- Mathematics for Engineers and Scientists (MATH1551), Single
Mathematics A (MATH1561), SIngle Mathematics B (MATH1571), Foundation
Mathematics (MATH1641)
Aims
- To appreciate the conceptual framework of classical physics, both
discrete and continuous.
Content
- Symmetry.
- Special relativity.
- Waves.
- Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Dynamics.
- Small oscillations of systems of particles.
Learning Outcomes
- By the end of the module students will: be able to solve a
range of predictable and unpredictable problems in Mathematical
Physics.
- have an awareness of the abstract concepts of theoretical
mathematics in the field of Mathematical Physics.
- have a knowledge and understanding of fundamental theories of
these subjects demonstrated through one or more of the following topic
areas: Symmetries, in particular Galilean symmetry of Newtonian
mechanics.
- Cartesian tensors.
- Special Relativity.
- Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Dynamics.
- Small oscillations of systems of particles.
- Wave equations.
- In addition students will have the ability to undertake and
defend the use of alternative mathematical skills in the following
areas with minimal guidance: Modelling.
Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to
the learning outcomes of the module
- Lecturing demonstrates what is required to be learned and the
application of the theory to practical examples.
- Weekly homework problems provide formative assessment to guide
students in the correct development of their knowledge and
skills.
- Tutorials provide active engagement and feedback to the
learning process.
- The end-of-year examination assesses the knowledge acquired
and the ability to solve predictable and unpredictable
problems.
Teaching Methods and Learning Hours
Activity |
Number |
Frequency |
Duration |
Total/Hours |
|
Lectures |
42 |
2 per week |
1 Hour |
42 |
|
Tutorials |
10 |
Fortnightly for 20 weeks |
1 Hour |
10 |
■ |
Problems Classes |
10 |
Fortnightly for 20 weeks |
1 Hour |
10 |
|
Preparation and Reading |
|
|
|
138 |
|
Total |
|
|
|
200 |
|
Summative Assessment
Component: Examination |
Component Weighting: 100% |
Element |
Length / duration |
Element Weighting |
Resit Opportunity |
Written examination |
3 hours |
100% |
Yes |
One written assignment to be handed in every third
lecture in the first 2 terms. Normally each will consist of solving
problems from a Problems Sheet and typically will be about 2 pages long.
Students will have about one week to complete each
assignment.
■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University