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Description
Outline:
The module aims to develop, via a discussion of heat and the interaction of heat with matter, an understanding of the laws of thermodynamics. Simple statistical ideas of heat are introduced which are fully developed in a later course. Students are able by the end to apply thermodynamics to simple systems. The course then introduces the concept of understanding properties of matter from the structure and interactions of the atoms that they are made of. Topics include phases and phase changes, mechanical properties and bonding and crystal structures and defects.
Aims:
- Obtain predictions from the kinetic theory, and derive and apply the Maxwell鈥揃oltzmann distribution;
- Introduce and apply the laws of Classical Thermodynamics;
- Discuss the symmetry and stability of the three primary phases of matter;
- Describe a crystal structure in terms of a lattice and a basis.
Teaching and Learning Methodology:
This module is delivered via weekly lectures supplemented by a series of problem solving tutorials and additional discussion.
In addition to timetabled lecture and PST hours it is expected that students engage in self-study in order to master the material. This can take the form, for example, of practicing example questions and further reading in textbooks and online.
Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 19th August 2024.
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