Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook
This is an archived handbook for a previous year. The current undergraduate and postgraduate handbooks can be viewed using the links above.

Undergraduate Handbook 2016-2017 (archived)

Module MATH2071: MATHEMATICAL PHYSICS II

Department: Mathematical Sciences

MATH2071: MATHEMATICAL PHYSICS II

TypeLevelCreditsAvailabilityModule CapLocation
Open 2 20 Available in 2016/2017 Durham

Pre-requisites

  • Calculus and Probability 1 (MATH1061) and Linear Algebra 1 (MATH1071) and Programming and Dynamics 1(MATH1041) [the latter may be a co-requisite]] OR Calculus and Probability 1 (MATH1061) and Linear Algebra 1 (MATH1071) and Foundations of Physics I (PHYS1122).]

Corequisites

  • Programming and Dynamics 1(MATH1041) unless taken before, or unless Foundations of Physics I (PHYS1122) has been taken before.

Excluded Combinations

  • Mathematics for Engineers and Scientists (MATH1551), Single Mathematics A (MATH1561), Single Mathematics B (MATH1571), Theoretical Physics 2 (PHYS2631)

Aims

  • To appreciate the conceptual framework of classical and quantum physics.

Content

  • Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Dynamics.
  • The Wave Equation
  • Small oscillations of systems of particles.
  • Physics basis of Quantum Mechanics,
  • Schrodingers Equation

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge
  • 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,
  • Cartesian tensors.
  • Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Dynamics.
  • Small oscillations of systems of particles.
  • Wave equations.
  • Elementary Quantum Mechanics
Subject-specific Skills
  • 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.
Key Skills

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

ActivityNumberFrequencyDurationTotal HoursAttendance Monitored
Lectures 42 2 per week 1 Hour 42
Tutorials 10 Fortnightly for 20 weeks 1 Hour 10 Yes
Problems Classes 10 Fortnightly for 20 weeks 1 Hour 10
Preparation and Reading 138
Total 200

Summative Assessment

ComponentComponent WeightingElementLength/DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Examination 100% Written examination 3 hours 100% Yes

Formative Assessment

Fortnightly or weekly written assignments in the first 2 terms.


Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.