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Natural Sciences Unit Catalogue
BIOL0003: Biochemistry 1
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX80 PR20
Requisites: Co BIOL0001
Pre A-Level Chemistry Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To teach the students the pathways of central metabolism and to relate
the regulation of these pathways to the homeostasis of the whole organism. In
order to appreciate and understand metabolism, the students are taught the fundamental
aspects of enzymes and their regulation, and this in turn is necessarily preceded
by lectures on protein structure. After taking this course the student should
be able to:
* know the pathways of central metabolism
* understand the way in which the cell degrades nutrients in small steps to
allow the energy to be trapped and converted to a useful form
* appreciate the way in which central metabolism connects catabolism and anabolism
* understand the regulation of central metabolism with respect to the needs
of the organism in relation to its environment
Content:
Proteins: amino acids - structures, ionisation and physical properties; primary
structure and an overview of protein folding and conformation. Enzymes: catalysis,
kinetics, regulation. Metabolism: chemistry of monosaccharides, glycolysis,
gluconeogenesis, citric acid cycle, glyoxylate cycle, regulation of central
metabolism.
BIOL0004: Biochemistry 2
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Pre BIOL0003
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To introduce the central pathways of fatty acid metabolism and mitochondrial
oxidation and integrate these into overall cell function. To inculcate appreciation
of the metabolic pathways into function at the organ and tissue level. To teach
the implications of stereochemistry into the biochemistry of key metabolic intermediates.
After taking this course the student should be able to:
* appreciate the principles of mitochondrial oxidative function
* understand lipid structure and the pathways of fatty acid oxidation and synthesis
* understand the mechanisms of neurotransmission and muscle contraction
* comprehend the stereochemistry of small organic molecules of biological importance
Content:
The course is a direct follow on from BIOL0003. Topics studied are 1) mitochondrial
bioenergetics, respiration, oxidative phosphorylation and the chemiosmotic theory;
2) lipid metabolism structure of lipids, catabolism and anabolism of fatty acids,
ketogenesis and coordination with other metabolic pathways; 3) biochemistry
of animal tissues and organs, such as mechanisms of neurotransmission and muscle
contraction; 4) stereochemistry of simple carbohydrates and citric acid cycle
intermediates with applications of biochemical mechanisms.
BIOL0005: Cell biology 1
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To introduce the techniques available for determining the structure and
function of cellular components and processes, to describe the structure and
function of cells and cell organelles and to show the diversity of cells. After
taking this course the student should be able to:
* describe the structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
* describe the structure and explain the function of cell organelles
* make comparisons between related structures and functions
* critically appraise methods available to determine the nature and function
of cellular processes
* understand the dynamic nature of cell behaviour.
Content:
Introduction: eucarya, eubacteria and archaea; microscopical techniques; cytochemistry;
cell fractionation and autoradiography. The structure and function of cell membranes,
plant walls, intercellular channels. Cellular processes such as cell signalling,
cytoskeleton and cell movement, secretion and absorption. Organelles involved
in energy metabolism: chloroplasts and mitochondria, plant microbodies. Nucleus,
chromosomes, cell growth and proliferation, mitosis and meiosis.
BIOL0006: Cell & molecular biology
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre BIOL0005
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To introduce the structure and function of nucleic acids; To introduce
the concepts and methodology of genetic modification. To introduce the processes
of animal and plant development. After taking this course the student should
be able to:
* understand how the structure of nucleic acid determines their biological function
* understand the power of the techniques of genetic modification for studying
and manipulating organisms, especially micro-organisms, for fundamental and
applied science
* appreciate the role changing patterns of gene expression play in modulating
development during animal embryogeny
Content:
The structure and function of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) in relation to organisms,
genes, gene expression and protein synthesis. How organisms, genes and gene
expression can be altered and studied via the technology of genetic modification.
How the changing patterns of gene expression in cells and tissues can lead to
the development of an egg into an animal, using examples from Xenopus, Drosophila
and mouse.
BIOL0011: The biosphere
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To provide a global perspective of the communities and ecosystems of the
world and the role of these systems in the flow of energy and matter. After
taking this course the student should be able to:
* identify the main flows of energy through the biosphere
* understand how minerals cycle in the environment and how soils form
* appreciate the main features of aquatic environments and terrestrial biomes
* have an awareness of the effects that humans have on the environment
Content:
The flow of energy through the biosphere; the global biogeochemical cycles;
soils and aquatic environments; the major terrestrial biomes(tundra, northern
coniferous forests, temperate deciduous forests, temperate grasslands, and tropical
forests). The impact of humankind on the environment, with particular emphasis
on pollution.
BIOL0012: Ecology & evolution
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To provide a broad introduction to key concepts in ecology and evolution.
To approach issues in ecology and evolution in a rigorous, cohesive way that
will provide the students with a conceptual framework that will help them to
examine other areas of biology in a fuller context of evolution and ecology.
To provide a firm foundation for more detailed study within the specific fields
of evolution and ecology later in their course. It aims to introduce students
to the unique position of ecology and evolution in the biological sciences;
why these disciplines pose unusual challenges such as huge time scales and an
attendant paucity of experimental information; why ecology and evolution tend
to be analytical rather than experimental sciences; reasons why these are theory
driven sciences and the special role of mathematical models in these disciplines.
After taking this course the student should be able to:
*outline certain key principles in evolution and ecology
*demonstrate an understanding of the unique position of evolution and ecology
in the biological sciences
*demonstrate an understanding of the logic of the arguments used in the construction
of simple mathematical models for population growth, competition and predator
prey relationships
*synthesise evidence of many kinds that animal, fungal and plant communities
have evolved in highly structured ways
*show some appreciation of the role of ecological and evolutionary thinking
in areas such as conservation and biodiversity
*have some basics skill in obtaining, processing and evaluating ecological data
in laboratory and field based practicals.
Content:
Key concepts in evolution, including the nature of evolutionary selection, including
kin-selection, sexual selection and natural selection. Dynamics of ecological
populations including field and laboratory examples and mathematical models.
Population growth, intraspecifc and interspecific competition and predator/prey
relationships. The structure and development of plant, animal and fungal communities
are also examined and evidence is described from studies of the limits of similarity,
island biogeography and food webs.
BIOL0037: Crop protection & weed biology
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 PR20
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To provide an understanding of the measures which can be taken to prevent
losses of crops due to the effects of pest, diseases and weeds. Approaches range
from those used in developed countries, often based on sophisticated technology
involving application of pesticides and herbicides, to low cost cultural methods
more practicable in developing countries. After taking this course the student
should be able to:
* decide upon optimal strategies for controlling pests, diseases and weeds
* evaluate the risks involved in a control method and be aware of relevant legislation
* identify key UK weed species
Content:
The history, principles and practice of protection of crop plants from parasitic
microorganisms, pests and competing weeds; biological physical and chemical
approaches to crop protection; pesticides and herbicides, their design, screening,
formulation and application; legislation; strategic and safe use in view of
non-target organisms; development of pest and herbicide resistance and environmental
pollution; integrated control measures. Practical sessions include identification
of weed plants and excursions to conventional and organic farms to study methods
of weed and pest control.
BIOL0038: Environmental physiology
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre BIOL0012
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To explore how animals (a) detect and react to environmental change, and
(b) are influenced by environmental toxicants. After taking this course the
student should be able to:
* demonstrate understanding of the cellular and physiological mechanisms by
which animals sense change in their environment, and co-ordinate developmental,
physiological and behavioural responses to environmental change.
* demonstrate how environmental toxicants affect some physiological and cellular
mechanisms and mechanisms by which organisms may show tolerance.
Content:
Bacterial chemotaxis as an example of sensorimotor function; structure and function
of animal sense organs; nervous and endocrine encoding of sensory information;
central modulation of sensory function; extraordinary sensory modalities (eg
electroreception); pheromones, kairomones and allomones, biological clocks -
phenomenology, properties, cellular and systems location, genetic analysis;
sleep. Impacts of environmental pollutants on animals in terrestrial and aquatic
environments. The accumulation of environmental toxicants by animals. What are
the consequences of accumulation? (heavy metals as examples). Interactions between
toxicants during exposure to mixtures of toxicants. Mechanisms and processes
to reduce toxicity. Organochlorines and hydrocarbons as pollutants.
BIOL0039: Autumn field course
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Pre BIOL0012
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To enhance students' awareness of the diversity of forms and behaviours
to be found in natural populations and communities of organisms and of how the
patterns in which this diversity occurs may be studied, described and understood.
After taking the course the student should be able to:
*know how to find and identify a variety of kinds of organisms within their
natural habitats
*know how to characterise distribution patterns using qualitative and quantitative
methods and sampling procedures including conventional descriptive, mapping,
quadrat, transect and trapping techniques and estimates of fractal dimension
*recognise the influence of selection on distribution patterns
*begin to question and understand how distribution patterns may arise from dynamic
processes of energy transfer and feedback within and between living systems
and their environment
*have developed presentational skills enabling them effectively to convey, discuss
and analyse ideas and information about natural diversity.
Content:
Two members of academic staff spend six days in full-time residence with students
at a suitable location in the south west of the UK. This involves visits to
intertidal, sand dune, coastal grassland, moorland/heathland, salt marsh and
woodland habitats; sampling, identification, descriptive and recording methods
for plants, animals and fungi; data presentation and analysis using statistical
and non-linear mathematical approaches; consideration of evolutionary and ecological
relationships between genotypes, phenotypes and environment; investigative project;
oral and written discourse. Students are required to make a financial contribution
to the field course (currently £95)
BIOL0040: Concepts in ecology & evolution
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre BIOL0012
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To develop an understanding of a) the nature of selection; b) the role
of self-organisation in evolution; c) population dynamics and conservation;
d) behavioural ecology and optimal foraging theory; e) the contribution of Darwin
to the development of modern evolutionary theory. After taking this course the
student should be able to:
* utilise concepts from natural selection theory, kin selection theory, optimisation
theory, behavioural ecology, community biology, and ecological genetics in understanding
ecological and evolutionary issues
* understand the role of self-organisation in social insects.
* offer a critique of the first edition of Darwin's 'The Origin of Species'
and understand how key issues raised by Darwin as problems for his theory have
been resolved.
Content:
The role of selection in evolution; agents of selection; units of selection;
selection and adaptation; selection and fitness; natural selection and kin selection;
genetic drift. Conservation and habitat fragmentation; exploiter mediated co-existence.
Optimality in ecology and evolution; optimal foraging theory; self organisation;
division of labour and the super-organism; battle strategies in social insects.
Students are also requested to read 'The Origin of Species' and to discuss it
in reading groups.
BIOL0041: Spring field course
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Pre BIOL0012
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To introduce the student to natural habitats in ways that enable the students
to recognise patterns of distribution and behaviour of organisms and to question
the basis of these patterns and behaviours. To introduce the student to the
use of appropriate sampling patterns, experimental design, data gathering and
statistical analysis. After taking the course the student should be able to:
*appreciate how aspects of behavioural ecology and of community structure can
be investigated
*understand how these behaviours and structure may have arisen and how they
are maintained
*design and perform a short field-based investigation; analyse and graphically
present data
*prepare a written report of field-based investigations.
Content:
Visit to ecosystem types of varying complexity and subject to different kinds
of selection process, such as rocky shore, sand dune, coastal grassland, salt
marsh, woodland, moorland and fresh water. Investigation of components of these
ecosystem types including spatial distribution, size and age distributions,
reproduction and behaviour. Each student designs and carries out a half-day
and a two-day field-based investigation; a preliminary report of the two-day
investigation is presented as a short talk on the last day of the field trip;
the data from the investigations are analysed and graphically presented using
University computing facilities after the field trip. Students are required
to make a financial contribution to the field course (currently £95)
BIOL0049: Biochemical parasitology
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre BIOL0018, Pre BIOL0055
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To examine the biochemical adaptations required for existence as a successful
parasite. After taking this course the student should be able to:
*understand the definition of a parasite and give examples of important human
parasitic diseases.
*appreciate the metabolic constraints caused by occupancy of this niche and
the effects that parasitic infections and infestations have on the host
*note unique aspects of parasite molecular biology & physiology.
Content:
Parasitology: protozoan and helminth biochemistry and molecular biology. Its
modifications in parasites. The modes of action of anti-parasite drugs and what
these tell us about target metabolism.
BIOL0070: Plant biotechnology & the environment
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To define 'Plant Biotechnology' and describe the categories included within
the definition and their applications. By the end of this course the student
should have gained:
*a general understanding of the various categories of plant biotechnology
*an understanding of the direct and indirect effects of plant biotechnology
on the environment in terms of socio-economic costs and benefits
*an appreciation of policy and institutional issues related to the exploitation
of plant biotechnology by both the public and private sectors in a democratic
society.
Content:
The definition of Plant Biotechnology, the categories included within the definition
and their applications. The link: population + consumption level + (bio) technology
= environmental impact. World, regional and national trends in population size
and food consumption levels and their implications for agricultural and natural
ecosystems. The contribution of plant biotechnology to agricultural systems
and their environmental implications. Ex situ and in situ biodiversity
conservation strategies and the impact of biotechnology. Risk analysis and the
release of genetically manipulated organisms into the environment. Public and
private sector research, ownership of biological resources and intellectual
property rights. Control of biotechnology R & D and implementation: priority
setting; public participation; policies and institutions; developed and developing
countries. The Cassava Biotechnology Network as an example of control and implementation
of plant biotechnology.
BIOL0072: Biology as a world view
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX80 ES20
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To develop an understanding of the history of biological thought in western
culture. To develop an understanding of the extent to which the biological world
view reflects and shapes the broader western world view. To provide an introduction
to debates conducted within the philosophy of science about the potential of
science to obtain an accurate picture of reality; this debate is illustrated
with a case study which looks at philosophical and biological issues of the
mind-brain problem. After taking this course the student should be able to:
*discuss the development of biological thought in ancient Greece, in medieval
Europe and between the onset of the Scientific Revolution and the present
*debate problems associated with scientific methodology and discuss the implications
for the biological world view of these problems.
Content:
Views of nature in ancient Greece, from presocratic philosophers to Plato, Aristotle
and the neoplatonists, and in Europe from the medieval period to the present.
Topics include: the nature of reality; what exists and why; the relationship
between individuals, universals and classification. A critique of science which
will include the following issues: how science is possible; how science identifies
areas for study; the scientific approach, including the role of inductive and
deductive reasoning, theory-ladeness and theory choice.
BIOL0073: The evolution of genetic systems
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX70 CW30
Requisites: Pre BIOL0040, Pre BIOL0039
(recommended but not essential) Pre: A level Mathematics Aims & learning
objectives:
Aims: To provide an introduction to mathematical population genetics and its
application as regards understanding problems related to the organisation and
structure of genetic systems. After taking this course the student should be
able to:
*demonstrate competence in the analysis of simple recursion equations as applied
to one locus problems
*understand the operation of two locus recursion equations with application
to modifier analysis
*understand the methods for testing evolutionary hypotheses
*understand basic concepts within evolutionary genetic and molecular evolution.
Content:
The first four lectures provide an introduction to the mathematics of gene frequency
change.This provides the basis for asking the following questions:1) Why do
organisms have sex? 2) What determines the mutation rate? and 3) Why be diploid?
After this the notion of selfish elements is introduced and their relevance
to understanding the number of sexes and to genome structure is examined. Use
of molecular evolutionary data comparative analysis and experimental tests of
hypotheses are discussed.
BIOL0108: Life, environment and people
BIOL0077: Molecular evolution
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre BIOL0018, Pre BIOL0020, Pre BIOL0055
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To draw on the wealth of biochemical and molecular biological information
that the students have accumulated over the previous years of their course.
The revolution in molecular biology has created an extensive database of sequences
and correlations between protein structure and function; to appreciate and analyse
this, it is essential to understand the principles of molecular evolution. This
course aims to provide that understanding. After taking this course the student
should be able to:
* understand the current theories of molecular evolution
* appreciate that changes occur to the genotype, but selection is of the phenotype
* interpret evolutionary changes in protein structure with respect to changes
in function
* apply what we learn from the evolution of proteins to the engineering of enzymes
* understand the way in which phylogenetic trees are constructed
* evaluate critically current theories of cellular evolution
Content:
Topics: Evolution - what is it and why study it? Chemical evolution and the
origin of life. The RNA world. Genome evolution. Evolution of proteins: gene
duplication, mutation and divergence, adaptation and selection. Construction
of phylogenetic trees. Current concepts of cellular evolution.
BIOL0078: Biotechnology
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre BIOL0006, Pre BIOL0007, Pre BIOL0018
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To provide an understanding of the principles and practice of advanced
Biotechnology as described by industrial speakers. After taking this course
the students should be able to:
*give an account of how Biochemistry relates to Biotechnology in animal cell
culture
*describe the commercial use of extremophiles
*understand therapeutic use of biopharmaceuticals
*describe approaches to vaccine development
*account for the world wide implications of Biotechnology.
Content:
Animal cell culture, extremophiles, biopharmaceutical production, vaccine development,
clinical diagnostics, biosensors, viral products, computer aided drug design.
BIOL0079: Clinical biochemistry
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre BIOL0006, Pre BIOL0007, Pre BIOL0018
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To provide an understanding of the principles of biochemistry as applied
to medicine as described by invited clinical speakers. After taking this course
the students should be able to:
*understand the molecular biology and appreciate the medical significance of
various congenital and other defects in humans
*give an account of the biochemical aspects of cystic fibrosis; abnormalities
of postabsorbtive blood sugar, glycogen storage diseases, plasma lipids.
Content:
Topics: ion channels, metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins.
BIOL0108: Life, environment and people
CHEY0007: General chemistry
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX65 PR25 CW10
Requisites: Ex CHEY0001, Ex CHEY0004, Ex CHEY0009, Ex CHEY0010, Ex CHEY0011,
Ex CHEY0012
This unit is not available to students on Chemistry programmes. Aims & learning
objectives:
To provide a broad introduction to the principles governing chemical reactivity
and to illustrate these with a range of examples. After studying the Unit, students
should be able to:
* Analyse experimental data and classify reactions.
* Use thermodynamic principles to account for chemical reactivity
* Describe the determination of rates of chemical reactions
* Describe simple theories of bonding in compounds.
* Rationalise reaction and structural chemistry in terms of the bonding models
Content:
Introduction to thermodynamics and kinetics with a range of case-study examples
to illustrate how the basic principles can be applied to real reactions. Chemical
equilibria and coupled reactions. An introduction to atomic and molecular structure
and bonding in compounds and how this is used to explain trends in structure
and reactivity across the Periodic Table.
CHEY0008: Introductory organic chemistry
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX80 PR20
Requisites:
This unit is not available to students on Chemistry programmes. Aims & learning
objectives:
To provide an introduction to the subject of organic chemistry as a basis for
understanding molecular processes affecting other areas of sciences, with reference
to the themes of structure and bonding, reactivity, mechanism and synthesis.
After studying the Unit, students should be able to:
* Account for the mechanism by which simple organic reactions occur
* Name and draw diagrammatically a selected range of organic compounds and functional
groups
* Describe methods for the interconversion of selected functional groups
* Solve straightforward problems involving the material covered
Content:
Structure and bonding: Lewis theory, formal charge; resonance; hybridization
conformation, configuration, chirality. Reactivity: chemistry of functional
groups including alkanes, alkenes, alkyl halides, alcohols, ethers, thiols,
aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, esters, acyl halides, thioesters, amides,
amines; aromatics. Mechanism: energy profiles, heterolyis, homolysis, acidity,
basicity, nucleophilicity, electrophilicity, electrophilic addition, nucleophilic
substitution, elimination; nucleophilic addition/elimination, electrophilic
and nucleophilic aromatic substitution, kinetic vs. thermodynamic control.
CHEY0013: Characterization methods
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Pre CHEY0006
Aims & learning objectives:
To provide an introduction to a number of techniques for characterisation of
chemical compounds. After studying this Unit, students should be able to:
* Describe the principles underlining the techniques studied.
* Interpret and make calculations based on simple X-ray diffraction patterns.
* Interpret and predict NMR and ESR spectra from a number of nucleii.
* Obtain chemical information from more advanced 1H NMR spectral methods.
* Identify the fundamental processes that lead to absorption, emission and scattering
of electromagnetic radiationfrom molecular species.
Content:
Overview of X-ray generation and use of filters. Crystal classes, lattices and
unit cells. Bragg's Law. Uses of powder diffraction. General principles of NMR
- magnetic properties of nuclei, sensitivity and abundance. Spectra of I = 1/2
nuclei. Chemical shifts and coupling constants. Problems with I>1/2 nuclei.
Interpretation of NMR spectra. Homotopic and diastereotopic protons. Exchange
processes. Correlated spectra. The Nuclear Overhauser effect. Magnetic properties
of the electron and the origin and interpretation of ESR spectra. Mass spectrometry.
IR vibrational spectra of complex molecules. Scattering, rotational and vibrational
Raman spectroscopy. Emission spectroscopy. The fate of steady states. Alternative
emission processes.
CHEY0018: Environmental aspects of chemistry
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites:
Pre CHEY0005 OR CHEY0007 Aims & learning objectives:
To provide an introduction to various aspects of chemistry which have an impact
on the environment. To promote an understanding of the major chemical processes
contributing to the structure and stability of the biosphere. To provide an
insight into the effects of human activities on the atmosphere. After studying
the Unit, students should be able to:
* select appropriate techniques for the analysis of compounds or elements in
a range of situations.
* describe the principles behind as well as the usefulness and significance
of a selected range of analytical methods.
* describe factors affecting nuclear stability and outline selected applications
of radioactive decay processes.
* describe qualitative and quantitative aspects of selected radioactive decay
processes.
* account for the physical structure and composition of the atmosphere.
* describe natural and anthropogenic sources of N,O and halogen containing species
and relate their reactivity to ozone forming and depleting reactions and to
global warming.
Content:
Revision of basic analytical methods (titrimetry, spectroscopy) and statistical
treatment of results. Electrochemical methods of analysis. Techniques for metals
in the environment (AAS, AFS, ICP-MS). Chromatographic methods, with emphasis
on applications for organics in the environment The nature, properties and applications
of radioactivity and radioactive elements. Production and recycling of nuclear
fuels. General features determining the composition of the biosphere. Major
chemical cycles and dynamic versus thermodynamic control. Atmospheric chemistry
and the roles of N, O and halogens in relation to ozone producing cycles and
organic radicals.The Greenhouse effect.
CHEY0035: Asymmetric synthesis
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0014
Aims & learning objectives:
To introduce some topics of current research interest to students with a specialised
interest in organic chemistry and to explain the importance and history of new
developments and their significance. After studying the Unit, students should
be able to
* Quote examples of organic reactions in current use for synthesising industrially
important compounds
* Describe methods for the control of stereochemistry of organic reactions
* Account for the synthetic methods used and the reaction mechanisms of the
selected reactions
Content:
Introduction to and examples of asymmetric catalysis. Catalytic asymmetric hydrogenation.
Asymmetric oxidations - epoxidation and dehydroxylation. Enantiopure Lewis acids.
The use of auxilliaries to control the stereochemistry of organic reactions.
SAMP and RAMP hydrazones; Evans auxilliaries in enolate alkylation reactions.
Control of syn/anti stereochemistry in the aldol reaction. Stereoselective Diels
Alder reactions in synthesis.
CHEY0037: Synthesis of medicinal compounds
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0014
Aims & learning objectives:
To introduce and illustrate how advanced synthetic organic chemistry is used
in the preparation of medicinally valuable compounds. After studying this Unit,
students should be able to:
* Use reterosynthetic analysis to plan synthetic routes to a range of complex
target molecules.
* Define reagents and strategies for the assembly of defined stereochemical
arrays.
* Design rational analogues, or modified compounds from given medicinal agents.
Content:
The unit will illustrate the complex relationship between organic chemistry
and medicine. Several disease areas will be selected and compounds used to treat
them considered. The focus of the unit will be the methods used to synthesise
those compounds. Areas covered will include:- Prostaglandens, b-Lactams, ionophoro
antibiotics and anti-cancer drugs.
CHEY0056: Introduction to chemistry
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Co MATE0004
Aims & learning objectives:
This course is designed for students without A-level chemistry who need to have
some appreciation of chemical ideas to use in their major degree subject(s).
It will provide a broad introduction to the principles governing chemical reactivity
and to illustrate these with a range of examples.
Content:
Introduction to atomic structure and chemical bonding e.g. valency. Trends in
structure and reactivity across the Periodic Table. The mole, chemical equations
and chemical reactions. The emphasis will be on taking examples from the real
world and explaining the chemical principles which underlie them.
CHEY0057: Introduction to practical chemistry
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: PR80 CW20
Requisites: Co CHEY0056
Aims & learning objectives:
To introduce a range of practical chemistry techniques to students and to demonstrate
how experimental work can be used to consolidate material presented in lectures.
Content:
A series of experiments to introduce basic analytical methods such as titrations,
gravimetry and spectrophotometry, manipulation of glassware, straightforward
synthetic procedures. Some supplementary material will be presented in workshops
to reinforce ideas met in the previous lecture based unit.
CHEY0070: New developments in organic chemistry
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0014
Aims & learning objectives:
To describe some modern aspects of organic synthesis, including the control
of stereochemistry and an introduction to medicinal chemistry After studying
this Unit, students sould be able to:
* Understand the basic principles of organic chemistry taught in earlier modules.
* Explain how stereochemistry can be controlled in organic synthesis
* Discuss contemporary methods of drug discovery and medicinal chemistry
* Explain why combinatorial chemistry can benefit the drug discovery process
Content:
Stereochemistry of addition to carbonyl groups and alkenes. Directed reactions.
Selectivity in hydroboration, epoxidation and hydrogenation. Selectivity in
[3,3]-sigmatropic processes. An introduction to medicinal chemistry. The discovery
and mode of action of sulfonamide drugs. Penicllins and the semi-synthesis of
new antibiotics. The principles of combinatorial chemistry. The advantages of
solid phase organic synthesis using resins.
CHEY0071: Organoelement chemistry
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0014
Aims & learning objectives:
To describe some modern aspects of organic synthesis, including, the use of
unconventional elements in synthesis. After studying this Unit, students sould
be able to:
* Understand the basic principles of organic chemistry taught in earlier modules.
* Define the role of transition metals as catalysts in modern organic chemistry
* Describe some of the important organic reactions based on main group elements
* Integrate concepts from inorganic chemistry with a mechanistic understanding
of organoelement chemistry.
Content:
Transition metal catalysed coupling reactions and carbonylation reactions. Catalytic
reactions involving alkenes (especially the Heck reaction). Other applications
of transition metals to organic synthesis. General aspects of organosilicon
chemistry, The use of sulfur ylides in alkene formation. Organoboron and organophosphorus
chemistry. Stereochemistry of addition to carbonyl groups and alkenes. Directed
reactions. Selectivity in hydroboration, epoxidation and hydrogenation.
CHEY0077: Spectroscopy (NS)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW20 PR10 EX70
Requisites: Pre CHEY0007
Aims & learning objectives:
The Unit will provide an introduction to the principles of molecular spectroscopy,
developing from the basic quantum mechanics of simple molecules to the interpretation
of spectra of complex molecules. After studying this Unit, students should be
able to:
* Define the terms wavefunction and eigenvalue.
* Relate physical models to quantisation of molecular and electronic energies.
* Predict the pure rotation and vibration-rotation spectra of linear diatomic
molecules.
* Describe the origin of microwave, IR, NMR and electronic spectra.
* Identify organic species from IR, NMR and UV spectra.
Content:
Basic principles of quantum mechanics; wavefunctions, eigenvalues and operators.
Introduction to electromagnetic radiation. Rotational spectroscopy; rigid rotor
model. Vibrational spectroscopy. Linear ditomics and polyatomic molecules. Vibration-rotation
spectroscopy. Electronic spectra of conjugated compounds. IR spectra of functional
group containing compounds. Origins and applications of proton and carbon NMR
spectra. Introduction to mass spectrometry.
CHEY0078: Synthesis of organic molecules (NS)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW20 PR10 EX70
Requisites: Pre CHEY0008
Aims & learning objectives:
To provide the student with a working knowledge of important classes of organic
transformations, including mechanisms. To give an overview of retrosynthetic
analysis as a valuable method for the design of an organic molecule. After studying
this Unit, students should be able to:
* account for the importance of selectivity in organic synthesis.
* demonstrate the important relationship between structure and reactivity for
organic molecules.
* design syntheses of heterocyclic and alicyclic compounds from common starting
materials
* apply retrosynthesis methods to a selected range of compounds
Content:
The principles of retrosynthesis. The use of carbon nucleophiles in retrosynthesis.
Malonate ester synthesis and applications. Umpolung reagents. Alkene synthesis,
including Wittig reaction. Oxidation reactions of alkenes and alcohols. Reduction
reactions of ketones and other carbonyl compounds. Protecting groups and strategy
in organic synthesis. Introduction to selectivity; substrate selectivity, regioselectivity.
Chemoselectivity - oxidation and reduction. Stereoselectivity - diastereoselective
and enantioselective synthesis. Conformation of cyclohexanes - the importance
of stereochemistry to reactivity - carbohydrates. Description and synthesis
of heterocycles. Routes to pyrroles, furan, thiophene, pyridine and indoles
and their reactivity. Synthesis and reactivity of pyridines, quinolines and
isoquinolines. Synthesis and reactivity of 3- and 4-membered ring heterocycles.
CHEY0079: Transition metal chemistry (NS)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW20 PR10 EX70
Requisites: Pre CHEY0007
Aims & learning objectives:
After studying this Unit, students should be able to:
* Describe bonding models that can be applied to a consideration of the properties
of transition metal compounds.
* Describe the basis of colour and magnetism in tranition metal compounds.
* Appreciate the chemistry of transition metal compounds containing metal-carbon
s- and p-bonds.
Content:
General properties of transition metal compounds. Bonding theories e.g. Crystal
Field Theory and its applications and limitations. Multi-electron systems: Russell-Saunders
coupling and its application to d-d electronic spectra and magnetochemistry.
Explanation of structural and chemical properties of transition metal- ligand
complexes particularly metal carbonyls. Organometallics - nomenclature, electron
counting, hapticities. Metal-carbon s- and p-bonding
and examples of each. Applications and uses of organometallic compounds. Reaction
mechanisms in inorganic compounds.
CHEY0080: Interfacial chemistry (NS)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW20 PR10 EX70
Requisites: Pre CHEY0007
Aims & learning objectives:
To provide an introduction to the physical chemistry of interfaces and to demonstrate
its significance in catalysis and colloid science. After studying this units,
students should be able to:
* Describe and define the types of adsorption at solid surfaces
* Explain the qualitative and quantitative basis of catalysis and physical adsorption
* Define surface tension and solve simple problems involving its application
* Define and interpret the forces between two colloids
* Describe the different processes which control reactions at solid/liquid interfaces
Content:
Introduction to surfaces. chemisorption versus physisorption. adsorbed amounts.
Types of isotherms: Langmuir Isotherm. determination of heat of adsorption,BET
isotherm: Introduction to heterogeneous catalysis. Kinetics of catalysis. Langmuir
Hinshelwood mechanism. Eley Rideal mechanism. Catalysis examples Modern surface
science techniques. Molecular basis and consequences of surface tension. Colloid
stability. Micellisation. Gibbs equation.reactions at solid/liquid interfaces.
Mass transport, surface reactivity.
EDUC0001: Exploring effective learning
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
This unit is intended for those students who wish to explore their own learning
and to develop strategies for improving it. The unit reviews learning in lectures,
tutorials, seminars etc and assessment as encountered by students in higher
education. Starting from the students own approaches to learning it considers
more effective ways based on experience and research.
Content:
The nature of learning; what is learnt (skills, knowledge, values etc.); learning
styles; learning in groups; autonomy in learning; communication as part of the
learning process; study skills; presentation skills; time management; assessment
and being assessed. This is the recommended unit for those wishing to do one
education unit in the year, outside their degree programme.
EDUC0002: Learning: Theory & context
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
This unit will consider more theoretical aspects of learning. It will consider
theories of learning and their application in particular situations including
schools, colleges, universities and lifelong learning. It will also explore
the implications of new technologies for learning and the impact of visual literacy
on learning.
Content:
Learning theories; information processing; experiential learning; metacognition;
reflection; language and learning; memory. Contexts for learning: schools, further
education, higher education, distance and open learning, the workplace, lifelong
learning. It is advisable to have done EDUC0001 before this unit, but it is
not a requirement. However, Natural Science students must have taken EDUC0001
in order to undertake this unit.
EDUC0003: Education in society
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
This unit will consider the role of education in society. It will be based on
an assessment of the purposes of education and of educational organisations
such as schools, colleges and universities. It will consider government policies
towards education; how these policies are formed and what they mean in practice.
Examples will be drawn from the UK and wider.
Content:
Aims and purposes of education in different societies and through time; the
politics of education; the role of state in education policy and practice: national
curricula, national development plans, centralised and decentralised systems,
the relationship between education and culture; the hidden curriculum; vocationalism;
educational alternatives; Europeanisation and globalisation.
EDUC0004: Educational institutions as organisations
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
This unit considers educational institutions as organisations. It will look
at how these institutions are organised around their key purposes. It will consider
key organisational issues such as curriculum design and implementation, equal
opportunities, staff development, measuring and identifying effectiveness, ways
of improving the quality of provision; the learning institution.
Content:
Schools/colleges/universities as organisations; purposes of the organisations
and the practical implications; curriculum purposes and design; equalising opportunities:
class, gender, race etc; curriculum strategies: setting, banding, streaming,
differentiating, learning support/special needs, pastoral care, assessment,
cross-curricular elements; measuring/identifying effectiveness and approaches
to improvement; the culture of the teacher: staff development/professional development
issues; open learning, lifelong learning, access to learning and accreditation
of learning.
EDUC0005: Science education in practice
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
This unit considers teaching and theories of teaching within the context of
science education. The unit includes practical activities within a teaching
context which are designed to illustrate the underlying theories. The unit considers
issues such as curriculum, assessment, purposes, elements of instructional design
and the role of the teacher.
Content:
The relationship between teaching and learning; issues related to designing
a curriculum for science: why teach science, how do we learn science, elements
of science teaching, conceptual nature of science learning; designing a science
curriculum; implementing an aspect of a science curriculum and evaluating it;
assessing learning in science. This unit is intended for science, engineering
and mathematics students who may be interested in a career in teaching.
EDUC0006: Issues in science education
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
This unit considers key issues in science education. Examples include: the purposes
of science education, public understanding of science, how science is learnt,
science learning in relation to practical experience, assessment of science
learning, equal opportunities in science education.
Content:
The issues will change from time to time, examples include: Theories of learning
science, their practical implications and value to the science educator, for
example, constructivism and Cognitive Acceleration through Science Education
(CASE); the nature and role of practical experience in science learning; equal
opportunities in science education; the purposes of science education in for
example, the public understanding of science; the nature of science in National
Curricula.
EDUC0115: Undergraduate certificate in education
Academic Year
Credits: 60
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment:
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Students will complete the study associated with the Postgraduate Certificate
in Education.
Content:
The content is identical to that taught on the Postgraduate Certificate in Education.
Students must comply with the requirements for entry onto PGCE including a satisfactory
interview before they may opt for the UGCE year. Please see the Director of
Studies for further information. There is an expectation that students wishing
to take the UGCE year would complete, at least, EDUC0005 in their second year.
ENAP0010: Electronic structure & materials properties
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites:
Pre [Mat. Sci. 1st Yr.] or[ Maths A level and(Chemistry A level or Physics
A level)] Aims & learning objectives:
To provide a coherent quantum-mechanical treatment of the behaviour and role
of electrons in solids. To introduce the concepts of: wave-particle duality;
quantum mechanical uncertainty and wave functions. To provide a quantum mechanical
description of bonding and electrical conduction in solids.
Content:
Classical theory of electrical conduction in metals, Ohm's Law, thermal conductivity,
electronic specific heat and the failure of classical theory. DeBroglie wave
length, wave-particle duality, Heisenberg uncertainty principle, Schroedinger
wave equation. Electrons in an infinite potential well, quantum states, quantum
numbers, energy levels, density of states, the free electron model, Fermi energy,
k-space, the Fermi surface. Properties of free electron metals. Qualitative
solution of the Schroedinger equation for hydrogen, wave functions and quantum
numbers; atomic orbitals. Bonding between atoms; linear combination of atomic
orbitals; hybridisation; s and p bonds; delocalisation; structure of molecules.
Students must have A-level Mathematics and A-level Physics or Chemistry in order
to undertake this unit.
ENAP0027: Environmental studies: A crisis in material
resources? B
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX75 CW25
Requisites: Co ENGR0001
Aims & learning objectives:
To achieve an understanding of environmental aspects of the science and technology
of engineering materials, to use this knowledge to illuminate the broad questions
as to whether there is an environmental 'crisis', whether there are limits to
growth, and whether there can be sustainable development, and to develop defensible
positions on these issues.
Content:
Engineering materials feature strongly in many environmental conflicts and debates.
The development of civilization and wealth creation depend on the availability
of raw materials resources. The global distribution of these resources is uneven
and historically it has led to territorial and financial disputes. The extraction
of materials by mining and quarrying leaves physical scars on a monumental scale
and there are often additional problems of environmental contamination and subsidence
which result from these activities. The purification of raw materials and manufacturing
processes cause a wide spectrum of environmental problems including atmospheric
pollution and poisoning of water courses. At the end of the useful life of manufactured
objects the potential for recycling must be considered to minimise environmental
impact. Topics will be examined within the framework of:
* The environmental issue or concern
* Materials considerations
* Environmental outcome Examples of topics: materials resources, materials properties,
glass, cement, asbestos, metals, environmental degradation, polymers Seminar
programme combined with a student extended essay to encourage students to integrate
the syllabus content and to develop their own views on the relation between
environmental science and the wider social and economic context.
ENAP0030: Introduction to materials for sports science
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX40 CW20 ES20 PR20
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To understand the science underlying the use of materials in applications used
in sport. To appreciate the nature of the physical stresses imposed on materials,
both natural and artificial, and how the materials react to stresses. To explore
the use of high technology advanced materials in sports applications.
Content:
An introduction to mechanical properties: the nature of elastic stress and elastic
strain. The elastic limit. Types of stress and strain. Elastic compliance. Plastic
deformation and fracture. Energy absorption during loading and fracture, energy
release. Specific stress and specific strain. Compare and contrast metals, ceramics
and polymers as sporting materials. The limitations of homogeneous materials.
Composite materials and why they are used in sport. The law of mixtures for
composite materials. Natural and artificial composites; several examples of
each, outlining the structure and properties. Comparison of natural composites
( wood, bone, skin etc) with artificial composites. Case studies of sports equipment
, e.g. sport shoes, football studs, racquets, vaulting pole, sports bicycle;
the method of construction and the performance advantages that ensue.
ENAP0039: Technology of the modern world
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX70 ES30
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
The aim of the unit is to give non science/engineering students an appreciation
and understanding of some of the key technologies that underpin modern society.The
learning objectives will include:
* An appreciation of the contribution of Science and Engineering to quality
of life in modern society
* An understanding of key areas of technology which enable advanced economies
to function.
* The importance of power generation, its production and transmission in sustaining
core services.
* ·Understanding large engineering structures, and concepts.
Content:
* Short history of technology
* Role of technology in modern society
* Provision of major services, electricity, water, gas, communications
* Electricity generation (Coal/Oil, Nuclear, Hydro, Solar and alternative),
transmission and storage, use of electricity, power applications, chemical,
electronic
* Transport, land, sea, and air
* Automobile engines, reciprocating petrol and diesel, "environmentally friendly
systems"
* Aircraft engines and turbines
* Communications, speech, paper and writing. Coded communication - flags and
semaphore, telegraph. Electronic communication - telephone, radio, TV; coded
electronic communication - FAX machines, digital systems
* Transistors and integrated circuits - what are they?
* Large engineering structures, bridges, tunnels, buildings - from pyramids
to skyscrapers!
* Role of engineering materials
* Manufacturing processes, examples such as oil and gas, minerals, steel production,
cement.
ENAP0045: Materials processing 1 (NS)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: CW20 EX80
Requisites:
ENAP0046: Metals and Alloys (NS)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: CW20 EX80
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To introduce the principles of alloy constitution and show their application
to the thermal and mechanical treatment of engineering alloys. On completion,
the student should be able to: identify common types of alloy phase, their characteristics
and their interactions; interpret simple binary phase diagrams; describe and
explain the effects of commercial heat treatments on steels and light alloys.
Content:
Microstructure of metals, grain refinement, influence of grain size on mechanical
properties, the Petch equation; microstructural and mechanical effects of cold-working
and annealing; applications and limitations of pure metals. Alloys: Solid solutions,
factors determining solubility, effect of composition on properties, intermediate
phases and phase structure. Phase diagrams of binary systems, invariant reactions,
precipitation from solution. Equilibrium microstructures in simple systems of
commercial interest; Al-Si, Cu-Ni, Cu-Zn, Cu-Al, Fe-C, cast irons. Departures
from equilibrium, coring and undercooling. Normalised and annealed steels. Non-equilibrium
structures; age-hardening systems, steels, quenching and hardenability, tempering,
selected alloy steels.
ENAP0047: Mechanical properties of materials (NS)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW20 PR20 EX60
Requisites:
Pre Maths (A-level or M1a) and Physics or Chemistry A-level Aims &
learning objectives:
To extend the mathematical description of the effects of loads upon materials,
and to relate their mechanical behaviour to their internal structures. On completion,
the student should be able to: convert between tensor and orthodox descriptions
of elastic behaviour; characterise time-dependent effects in the deformation
of materials; recognise the interaction of time and temperature effects.
Content:
Elasticity: cohesion and bonding, energy-distance curves and Hooke's Law, departures
from linear elastic behaviour, elastic properties derived from bond energies.
Elasticity theory of crystals, stress and strain tensors, elastic anisotropy,
symmetry. Elastically isotropic solids, technical elastic moduli, measurement
of moduli. Anelasticity: cyclic stressing and internal friction. thermoelastic
effect, Snoek effect, other mechanisms. Specific damping capacity, logarithmic
decrement, loss tangent. Viscoelasticity: viscous flow, linear viscoelasticity,
spring and dashpot models. Creep and stress relaxation behaviour. Physical mechanisms
of viscoelastic behaviour. The glass transition temperature. Time-temperature
superposition, master curves for creep compliance and stress relaxation modulus.
Effect of molecular architecture and chemical composition on viscoelastic properties.
Dynamic viscoelasticity, the complex modulus, dynamic loading of Voigt and Maxwell
models, standard linear solid and generalised models, master curves. Moduli
and loss tangent as functions of frequency and temperature. Inter-relation of
viscoelastic parameters. The effect of polymer structure and crystallinity on
dynamic behaviour, mechanical spectroscopy. Non-linear viscoelastic behaviour.
ENAP0048: Materials processing 2 (NS)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To extend the student's knowledge of processing / structure / property relationships
in materials, in particular to include polymer and ceramic processing. On completion,
the student should be able to: assess materials processing routes using objective
criteria such as production rate, dimensional accuracy, flexibility; be aware
of techniques for the surface modification of materials.
Content:
Polymer Processing; Newtonian and power flow, Poiseuille equation, rheometry.
Injection moulding and extrusion of thermoplastics, die design and quality control,
blow moulding, calendering and pressure forming of polymer sheet. Transfer and
pressure moulding of filled and unfilled thermosetting and thermoplastic polymers.
Ceramic processing: production of powders: purity control, cold and hot compacting,
sintering. Relative merits of powder methods for metals and ceramics.
ENAP0049: Ceramics & glasses (NS)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: CW20 EX80
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To introduce the application of constitutional and kinetic principles to the
manufacture and exploitation of ceramics and inorganic glasses. On completion,
the student should be able to understand the nature of ceramics and glasses
on the basis of their structures and properties; describe the relationship between
various classes of ceramics and their applications.
Content:
Classification of Ceramics. What is a ceramic? Revision of crystal structures
and forces with specific reference to the scientifically and technologically
important ceramic materials. Source of ceramic materials and production methods.
General properties of ceramics, mechanical, chemical, thermal, optical, magnetic
and electrical. The nature of brittle ceramics and the use of statistics for
mechanical design. Classification of ceramics, traditional, refractories, advanced
ceramics, both structural and functional to include examples of technological
importance. Strengthening and toughening of ceramics. Precursor materials, powder
manufacture and powder processing. Ceramic forming methods, wet and dry. Drying
of ceramic powder compacts. Densification and sintering, both solid and liquid
phase. Hot pressing. Reaction bonding. Pyrolytic deposition. Use of phase diagrams.
Definitions for glass, volume-temperature relationship, glass transition temperature,
types and composition of oxide and other glasses. Structural chemistry of the
common glasses, network formers and modifiers, intermediates, Zachariasen's
rules, radial distribution functions. Nucleation and growth, phase separation,
Pyrex, Vycor, glass ceramics. Optical properties, refractive index, transparency,
coloured glass, special optical glasses, lenses, fibre optics case study. Electrical
properties, ionic and electronic conduction, industrial applications. Mechanical
properties, glass to metal seals, stress relief, toughened glass, ion exchange
annealing. Manufacture of glass, recycling glass, slow-release glasses, nuclear
waste encapsulation.
ENAP0050: Polymers (NS)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW20 PR20 EX60
Requisites:
Pre MATE0052 (Mt2.2/A); Maths AS or M1a; Chemistry AS or C1a Aims
& learning objectives:
To introduce the principles of polymer science with particular emphasis on those
aspects relevant to polymers as practical engineering materials.
Content:
Homopolymers, copolymers, linear, crosslinked, tacticity, plastics, rubbers,
fibres, molecular weight. The versatility of polymers the length of chains:
molecular weight Molecular weight definitions, determination molecular motion
& the glass transition Glass transition temperature effect of structure. Molecular
motion: nature of vitrification Viscoelasticity effect of temperature rate and
structure - Crystallinity. Morphology effect of molecular structure Where do
polymers come from? - polymerisation Polymerisation classification. Examples
and mechanisms of step and chain polymerisation. Kinetics of radical polymerisation
Step polymerisation. Carothers equation. Molecular weight distribution, copolymer
equation. The dramatic properties of rubber Elastomers. Chemical nature, vulcanisation
Stereospecific polymerisation, kinetic theory of rubber elasticity The environmental
dimension Additives. Fillers, plasticisers, antistatic agents. Degradation:
thermal, ultra-violet, stabilisers
ENAP0054: Composites/fracture of materials (NS)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW20 PR20 EX60
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
(a) The course introduces the theory and practice of reinforcement of a matrix
material with a stiff secondary phase, with the emphasis on fibre-reinforced
plastics. The student will be able to appreciate and model how the properties
of the composite can be predicted from the properties of the constituent materials.
Micro-mechanics of stress transfer and fracture will be included as well as
the estimation of macroscopic behaviour and manufacturing methods. (b) To present
a detailed treatment of the micro-mechanisms of fracture. conditions; develop
the understanding of fracture mechanics and its use in design of engineering
materials, prediction of fatigue parameters. Use concepts of fracture mechanics
and probability to account for the strengths of brittle materials.
Content:
(a) History and categorization of composites into particle- and fibre-reinforced
systems. Nature of fibre reinforcement (glass, carbon, Kevlar and whiskers)
and matrix materials (thermosets, thermoplastics and metal alloys). Comparison
of mechanical properties with other engineering materials. Longitudinal and
transverse moduli of FRPs, Rule of Mixtures, determination of modulus of elasticity
at any angle. Strength of composites parallel and perpendicular to fibres, Krenchel
coefficients. Load transfer in composites, interfacial shear, critical fibre
lengths, critical aspect ratio. Inter-laminar shear strength. Toughness of composites,
Cook-Gordon effect, fracture energy of cross-laminated composites. Fatigue and
creep of composites, S-N curves, residual strength, damage mechanisms. Engineering
applications for composites, fabrication, joining and repair. Designing with
composites, application of software. (b) Effect of cyclic loading, structural
changes and appearance of fracture surfaces, the fatigue limit, crack initiation
and growth. Mechanics and physics of fracture: theoretical cleavage strength,
the real strength of brittle solids, the conditions for ductile/brittle transition;
Griffith's treatment of fracture, Orowan's extension. Stress concentration and
distribution at the tip of cracks. Fracture mechanics, critical stress intensity
and strain energy release rate. Plane strain and plane stress, KIc as an engineering
design parameter, measurement of KIc. Fatigue and life prediction. Statistical
analysis of failure in brittle materials, flaw-size distributions, weakest link
model. Environmental effects, slow crack growth, K/V diagrams, environmental
stress cracking. Fracture mechanisms and fracture appearances, micro-mechanisms,
fracture maps.
ENAP0055: Properties of materials- laboratory unit 1
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: RT100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To develop practical and organisational skills for research. To introduce the
principles of report writing and materials properties. On completion, the student
should be able to produce structured laboratory reports on engineering properties,
microstrucutre, corrosion and fracture behaviour of materials in hand-written
or computer format.
Content:
Introduction to writing laboratory reports including presentation, structure,
style and treatment of experimental results. Demonstration of workshop practice.
A series of 4 laboratory practicals, working in groups of 2-4 students which
introduce the following aspects of materials properties:
* Engineering Properties
* Microscopy
* Corrosion
* Fracture
ENAP0058: Introduction to the mechanical & electrical
properties of materials
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To provide an introduction to materials types, microstructures and properties.
To show the influence of materials selection on the design and manufacture of
components or structures. To provide an understanding of the properties of magnetic,
dielectric and insulating materials.
Content:
Atomic structure and interatomic bonding; structure of cystalline solids; metals,
alloys, ceramics, polymers, glasses; microstructure, control of microstructure,
outline of manufacturing methods; mechanical properties of materials, ductility,
dislocations, brittle fracture; selection of materials, design. Origins of magnetism,
ferromagnetism, domain formation, magnetism, hysteresis, hard and soft magnets,
permanent magnet materials, transformer core, eddy current loss; ferrimagnetism,
ferrites, ferrite applications; electrical insulation, insulator materials,
breakdown of phenomena; capacitor types, dielectric properties, ferroelectrics,
capacitor selection; piezoelectric materials, piezoelectric ceramics, PZT, applications,
quartz, crystal resonators.
ENGR0001: Environmental studies: A crisis in material
resources? A
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX85 CW15
Requisites: Co ENAP0027, Co MATE0027
Aims & learning objectives:
Through a study of the science and technology of some renewable energy sources,
students are encouraged to consider the broad questions as to whether there
is an environmental 'crisis', whether there are limits to growth, and whether
there can be sustainable development, and to start to develop defensible positions
on these issues.
Content:
Energy The thermodynamics of power generation - 2nd Law of Thermodynamics considerations.
Combustion of fossil fuels - effects on the environment: greenhouse effect,
acid rain. The need to conserve fossil fuels: nuclear and alternative forms
of energy. The possible future contribution and cost of some of the following
energy alternatives. (i) Solar energy: various forms of solar collector, power
generation from the concentration of solar energy; direct generation of energy.
(ii) Wind energy: types of generator, horizontal and vertical axis, survey of
existing machines and their performance, future developments. (iii) Wave energy:
survey types of wave machine including those under development; methods of converting
motion of wave machines into electricity;; the current funding situation; effects
on the environment. (iv) Tidal energy: review of schemes, existing (e.g. La
Rance) and proposed (e.g. Severn and Mersey): technical and environmental problems.
(v) Geothermal energy: power generation from hyper-thermal fields, exploration,
geological conditions necessary; review of current production (e.g. New Zealand,
Japan), problems associated with high mineral content. Lower temperature sources:
district heating schemes. Hot dry rock schemes: current state of the art, future
possibilities. (vi) Biomass: current contributions, particularly in Third World
countries; conversion of sugar into alcohol as petrol replacement (Brazil).
Seminar programme combined with a student exercise such as a case study to encourage
students to integrate the syllabus content and to relate the science and technology
of environmental relevance to a wider social and economic context. Students
must have Chemistry A-level or undertaken CHEY0056 & CHEY0057.
ENGR0002: Environmental studies: The earth as an ecosystem
A
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX68 CW32
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To develop an understanding of the role that process design and development
play in pollution prevention and clean technology
Content:
Hierarchies of good environmental practices. Waste minimisation methodology.
Waste elimination, minimisation, and recycling. Engineering aspects of waste
reduction at source. Benefits and challenges of advanced treatments. Technological
change in new and existing processes. Implications arising from changes in products
and raw materials. Recycling methods (on-site and off-site), Re-use and reclamation.
Waste to energy processes. Quantification of wastes and effluents. Process waste
diagrams and environmental mass balances. Design simulation and optimisation
methods. Thermodynamic and kinetic limitations. Quantification of progress,
Normalisation of data and indexing. Seminar programme Seminars are intended
to encourage students to integrate the syllabus content and to relate it to
a wider social and economic context. Students must have undertaken ENGR0001
or CHEY0008 & CHEY0008.
ESML0204: Chinese stage 1A (beginners) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0205
Aims & learning objectives:
An introduction to basic Chinese ("putonghua") as a preparation to communicating
in a Chinese context.
Content:
Basic Chinese grammatical forms. Recognition and production of essential Chinese
characters; the Chinese phonetic system and the Pinyin system. Initial emphasis
will be placed on speaking and listening. Reading and writing tasks of an appropriate
nature will be gradually incorporated. Special attention will be paid to the
recognition and differentiation of tones.
ESML0205: Chinese stage 1B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0204
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of Chinese Stage 1A
Content:
A continuation of Chinese Stage 1A
ESML0206: Chinese stage 2A (post beginners) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0207
Aims & learning objectives:
A course to consolidate existing knowledge of Chinese, to develop listening,
reading, speaking and writing, and to reinforce grammar, in order to enable
students to operate in a Chinese speaking environment.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering the appropriate grammatical structures and vocabulary and there will
be continued emphasis on tones and pronunciation. Teaching materials will include
reading passages from a variety of sources as well as topical and relevant audio
and video material. Students are required to give short talks and undertake
writing tasks in Chinese.
ESML0207: Chinese stage 2B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0206
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of Chinese Stage 2A
Content:
A continuation of Chinese Stage 2A
ESML0208: Chinese stage 3A (advanced beginners) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0209
Aims & learning objectives:
This course builds on the Chinese covered in Chinese Stage 2 A and B in order
to enhance the student's abilities in the four skill areas.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures and vocabulary relating to China,
Singapore and Taiwan. There will be discussion in the target language of topics
derived from teaching materials, leading to small-scale research projects based
on the same range of topics and incorporating the use of press reports and articles
as well as audio and visual material. Students are encouraged to devote time
and energy to developing linguistic proficiency outside the timetabled classes,
for instance by additional reading and/or participating in informally arranged
conversation groups and in events at which Chinese is spoken.
ESML0209: Chinese stage 3B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0208
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of Chinese Stage 3A
Content:
A continuation of Chinese Stage 3A
ESML0210: French stage 7A (advanced) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0211
Aims & learning objectives:
A course to consolidate, refine and enhance previous advanced knowledge of French
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures and vocabulary. Teaching materials
cover a wide range of cultural, political and social topics relating to France
and may include short works of literature. There will be discussion in the target
language of topics derived from teaching materials, leading to small-scale research
projects based on the same range of topics and incorporating the use of press
reports and articles as well as audio and visual material. Students are encouraged
to devote time and energy to developing linguistic proficiency outside the timetabled
classes, for instance by additional reading and/or participating in informally
arranged conversation groups and in events at which French is spoken. Audio
and video laboratories are available to augment classroom work.
ESML0211: French stage 7B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0210
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of French Stage 7A
Content:
A continuation of French Stage 7A
ESML0212: French stage 8A (post advanced) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0213
Aims & learning objectives:
Continued consolidation and enhancement of the language already acquired in
French Stage 7A and 7B
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures and vocabulary. Teaching materials
cover a wide range of cultural, political and social topics relating to France
and may include short works of literature or extracts from longer works. Where
numbers permit, some subject-specific material may be included, covering the
relevant scientific and technological areas and/or business and industry. There
will be discussion and analysis in the target language of topics derived from
teaching materials with the potential for small-scale research projects and
presentations. Audio and video materials form an integral part of this study,
along with newspaper, magazine and journal articles. Students are actively encouraged
to devote time and energy to developing linguistic proficiency outside the timetabled
classes, by additional reading, links with native speakers and participating
in events at which French is spoken. Audio and video laboratories are available
to augment classroom work.
ESML0213: French stage 8B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0212
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of French Stage 8A
Content:
A continuation of French Stage 8A
ESML0214: French stage 9A (further advanced) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0215
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of the work outlined in French 8A and 8B
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures and vocabulary. Teaching materials
used cover a wide variety of sources and cover aspects of cultural political
and social themes relating to France. Works of literature or extracts may be
included, as well as additional subject-specific material, as justified by class
size. This may encompass scientific and technological topics as well as materials
relevant to business and industry. There will be discussion in the target language
of topics relating to and generated by the teaching materials, with the potential
for small-scale research projects and presentations. Audio and video materials
form an integral part of this study, along with newspaper, magazine and journal
articles. Students are actively encouraged to consolidate their linguistic proficiency
outside the timetabled classes, by additional reading, links with native speakers
and participating in events at which French is spoken. Audio and video laboratories
are available to augment classroom work.
ESML0215: French stage 9B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0214
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of French Stage 9A
Content:
A continuation of French Stage 9A
ESML0216: French stage 4A (intermediate) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0217
Aims & learning objectives:
A course to consolidate existing knowledge of French, to develop listening,
reading, writing and speaking, and to reinforce grammar, in order to enable
students to operate in a French-speaking environment.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures, vocabulary and pronunciation relating
to a selection of topics. Remedial work is carried out where necessary. Teaching
materials will include reading passages from a variety of sources as well as
topical and relevant audio and video material. Students are required to give
short presentations, conduct brief interviews and write dialogues, reports and
letters in French. Audio and video laboratories are available to augment classroom
work.
ESML0217: French stage 4B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0216
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of French Stage 4A
Content:
A continuation of French Stage 4A
ESML0218: French stage 5A (post intermediate) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0219
Aims & learning objectives:
This course builds on the French covered in French Stage 4A and 4B in order
to enhance the student's abilities in the four skill areas.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures, vocabulary and pronunciation. Teaching
materials cover a wide range of cultural, political and social topics relating
to France and may include short works of literature. There will be discussion
in the target language of topics derived from teaching materials, leading to
small-scale research projects based on the same range of topics and incorporating
the use of press reports and articles as well as audio and visual material.
Students are encouraged to devote time and energy to developing linguistic proficiency
outside the timetabled classes, for instance by additional reading and/or participating
in informally arranged conversation groups and in events at which French is
spoken. Audio and video laboratories are available to augment classroom work.
ESML0219: French stage 5B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0218
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of course French Stage 5A
Content:
A continuation of course French Stage 5A
ESML0220: French stage 6A (advanced intermediate) (6
credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0221
Aims & learning objectives:
This course concentrates on the more advanced aspects of French with continued
emphasis on practical application of language skills in a relevant context,
in order to refine further the student's abilities.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures and vocabulary. There is continued
further development of the pattern of work outlined in French Stage 5A and 5B
ESML0221: French stage 6B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0220
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of course French Stage 6A
Content:
A continuation of course French Stage 6A
ESML0222: German stage 1A (beginners) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0223
Aims & learning objectives:
An introduction to everyday German, in order to enable the student to cope at
a basic level in a German speaking environment, concentrating on oral/aural
communication and reading.
Content:
Initial emphasis will be placed on speaking, listening and reading. As vocabulary
is acquired more attention will be given to grammar. Writing tasks of a relevant
and appropriate nature will be incorporated. Audio and video laboratories are
available to augment classroom work
ESML0223: German stage 1B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0222
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of German Stage 1A
Content:
A continuation of German Stage 1A
ESML0224: German stage 2A (post beginners) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0225
Aims & learning objectives:
A course to build on language skills acquired in German Stage 1A and 1B to enhance
listening, reading, speaking and writing, and to consolidate grammar, in order
to enable students to operate in a German-speaking environment.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures, vocabulary and pronunciation. Teaching
materials will include reading passages from a wide variety of sources as well
as topical and relevant audio and video material. Students are required to give
short presentations, conduct brief interviews and write dialogues, reports and
letters in German Audio and video laboratories are available to augment classroom
work.
ESML0225: German stage 2B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0224
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of German Stage 2A
Content:
A continuation of German Stage 2A
ESML0226: German stage 3A (advanced beginners) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0227
Aims & learning objectives:
This course builds on the German covered in German Stage 2A and 2B in order
to enhance the student's abilities in the four skill areas.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures and vocabulary relating to a selection
of topics. Teaching materials cover a wide range of cultural, political and
social topics relating to German speaking countries and may include short works
of literature. There will be discussion in the target language of topics derived
from teaching materials, leading to small-scale research projects based on the
same range of topics and incorporating the use of press reports and articles
as well as audio and visual material. Students are encouraged to devote time
and energy to developing linguistic proficiency outside the timetabled classes,
for instance by additional reading and/or participating in informally arranged
conversation groups and in events at which German is spoken. Audio and video
laboratories are available to augment classroom work.
ESML0227: German stage 3B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0226
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of German Stage 3A
Content:
A continuation of German Stage 3A
ESML0228: German stage 7A (advanced) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0229
Aims & learning objectives:
A course to consolidate, refine and enhance previous advanced knowledge of German
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures and vocabulary. Teaching materials
cover a wide range of cultural, political and social topics relating to German
speaking countries and may include short works of literature. There will be
discussion in the target language of topics derived from teaching materials,
leading to small-scale research projects based on the same range of topics and
incorporating the use of press reports and articles as well as audio and visual
material. Students are encouraged to devote time and energy to developing linguistic
proficiency outside the timetabled classes, for instance by additional reading
and/or participating in informally arranged conversation groups and in events
at which German is spoken. Audio and video laboratories are available to augment
classroom work.
ESML0229: German stage 7B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0228
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of German Stage 7A
Content:
A continuation of German Stage 7A
ESML0230: German stage 8A (post advanced) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0231
Aims & learning objectives:
Continued consolidation and enhancement of the language already acquired in
German Stage 7A and 7B
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures and vocabulary. Teaching materials
cover a wide range of cultural, political and social topics relating to German
speaking countries and may include short works of literature or extracts from
longer works. Where numbers permit, some subject-specific material may be included,
covering the relevant scientific and technological areas and/or business and
industry. There will be discussion and analysis in the target language of topics
derived from teaching materials with the potential for small-scale research
projects and presentations. Audio and video materials form an integral part
of this study, along with newspaper, magazine and journal articles. Students
are actively encouraged to devote time and energy to developing linguistic proficiency
outside the timetabled classes, by additional reading, links with native speakers
and participating in events at which German is spoken. Audio and video laboratories
are available to augment classroom work.
ESML0231: German stage 8B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0230
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of German Stage 8A
Content:
A continuation of German Stage 8A
ESML0232: German stage 9A (further advanced) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0233
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of the work outlined in German Stage 8A and 8B
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures and vocabulary. Teaching materials
used cover a wide variety of sources and cover aspects of cultural political
and social themes relating to German speaking countries. Works of literature
or extracts may be included, as well as additional subject-specific material,
as justified by class size. This may encompass scientific and technological
topics as well as materials relevant to business and industry. There will be
discussion in the target language of topics relating to and generated by the
teaching materials, with the potential for small-scale research projects and
presentations. Audio and video materials form an integral part of this study,
along with newspaper, magazine and journal articles. Students are actively encouraged
to consolidate their linguistic proficiency outside the timetabled classes,
by additional reading, links with native speakers and participating in events
at which German is spoken. Audio and video laboratories are available to augment
classroom work.
ESML0233: German stage 9B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0232
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of German Stage 9A
Content:
A continuation of German Stage 9A
ESML0234: German stage 4A (intermediate) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0235
Aims & learning objectives:
A course to consolidate existing knowledge of German, to develop listening,
reading, writing and speaking, and to reinforce grammar, in order to enable
students to operate in a German-speaking environment.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures, vocabulary and pronunciation relating
to a selection of topics. Remedial work is carried out where necessary. Teaching
materials will include reading passages from a variety of sources as well as
topical and relevant audio and video material. Students are required to give
short presentations, conduct brief interviews and write dialogues, reports and
letters in German. Audio and video laboratories are available to augment classroom
work.
ESML0235: German stage 4B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0234
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of German 4A
Content:
A continuation of German 4A
ESML0236: German stage 5A (post intermediate) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0237
Aims & learning objectives:
This course builds on the German covered in German Stage 4A and 4B in order
to enhance the student's abilities in the four skill areas.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures, vocabulary and pronunciation. Teaching
materials cover a wide range of cultural, political and social topics relating
to German speaking countries and may include short works of literature. There
will be discussion in the target language of topics derived from teaching materials,
leading to small-scale research projects based on the same range of topics and
incorporating the use of press reports and articles as well as audio and visual
material. Students are encouraged to devote time and energy to developing linguistic
proficiency outside the timetabled classes, for instance by additional reading
and/or participating in informally arranged conversation groups and in events
at which German is spoken. Audio and video laboratories are available to augment
classroom work.
ESML0237: German stage 5B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0236
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of German Stage 5A
Content:
A continuation of German Stage 5A
ESML0238: German stage 6A (advanced intermediate) (6
credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0239
Aims & learning objectives:
This course concentrates on the more advanced aspects of German with continued
emphasis on practical application of language skills in a relevant context,
in order to refine further the student's abilities.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures and vocabulary. There is continued
further development of the pattern of work outlined in German Stage 5A and 5B
ESML0239: German stage 6B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0238
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of German Stage 6A
Content:
A continuation of German Stage 6A
ESML0240: Italian stage 1A (beginners) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0241
Aims & learning objectives:
An introduction to everyday Italian, in order to enable the student to cope
at a basic level in an Italian speaking environment, concentrating on oral/aural
communication and reading.
Content:
Initial emphasis will be placed on speaking, listening and reading. As vocabulary
is acquired more attention will be given to grammar. Writing tasks of a relevant
and appropriate nature will be incorporated. Audio and video laboratories are
available to augment classroom work
ESML0241: Italian stage 1B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0240
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of Italian Stage 1A
Content:
A continuation of Italian Stage 1A
ESML0242: Italian stage 2A (post beginners) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0243
Aims & learning objectives:
A course to build on language skills acquired in Italian Stage 1A and 1B, to
enhance listening, reading, speaking and writing, and to consolidate grammar,
in order to enable students to operate in an Italian-speaking environment.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures, vocabulary and pronunciation. Teaching
materials will include reading passages from a wide variety of sources as well
as topical and relevant audio and video material. Students are required to give
short presentations, conduct brief interviews and write dialogues, reports and
letters in Italian. Audio and video laboratories are available to augment classroom
work.
ESML0243: Italian stage 2B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0242
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of Italian Stage 2A
Content:
A continuation of Italian Stage 2A
ESML0244: Italian stage 3A (advanced beginners) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0245
Aims & learning objectives:
This course builds on the Italian covered in Italian Stage 2A and 2B in order
to enhance the students abilities in the four skill areas.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures and vocabulary relating to a selection
of topics. Teaching materials cover a wide range of cultural, political and
social topics relating to Italy and may include short works of literature. There
will be discussion in the target language of topics derived from teaching materials,
leading to small-scale research projects based on the same range of topics and
incorporating the use of press reports and articles as well as audio and visual
material. Students are encouraged to devote time and energy to developing linguistic
proficiency outside the timetabled classes, for instance by additional reading
and/or participating in informally arranged conversation groups and in events
at which Italian is spoken. Audio and video laboratories are available to augment
classwork
ESML0245: Italian stage 3B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0244
Amis & Learning Objectives: A continuation of Italian Stage 3A.
Content:
A continuation of Italian Stage 3A.
ESML0246: Japanese 1A (beginners) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0247
Aims & learning objectives:
An introduction to everyday Japanese, in order to enable the student to cope
at a basic level in a Japanese speaking environment, concentrating on oral/aural
communication and the reading and writing of the 2 phonetic Japanese scripts
and selected kanji (Chinese characters)
Content:
Initial emphasis will be placed on speaking, listening and reading. As vocabulary
is acquired more attention will be given to grammar. Writing tasks of a relevant
and appropriate nature will be incorporated. Course material will be drawn from
a variety of sources and will include audio-visual resources. Audio and video
laboratories are available to augment classroom work
ESML0247: Japanese 1B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0246
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of Japanese Stage 1A
Content:
A continuation of Japanese Stage 1A
ESML0248: Japanese 2A (post beginners) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0249
Aims & learning objectives:
A course to build on language skills acquired in Japanese Stage 1A and 1B, to
enhance listening, reading, speaking and writing, and to consolidate grammar,
in order to enable students to operate in a Japanese-speaking environment.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures, vocabulary and pronunciation. Teaching
materials will include reading passages from a wide variety of sources as well
as topical and relevant audio and video material. Students are required to give
short presentations, conduct brief interviews and undertake appropriate writing
tasks in Japanese. Audio and video laboratories are available to augment classroom
work.
ESML0249: Japanese 2B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0248
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of Japanese Stage 2A
Content:
A continuation of Japanese Stage 2A
ESML0250: Japanese 3A (advanced beginners) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0251
Aims & learning objectives:
This course builds on the Japanese covered in Japanese Stage 2A and 2B in order
to enhance the student's abilities in the four skill areas.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
which will include extended use of kanji characters and an introduction to keigo
(respect language) as well as covering the appropriate grammatical structures
and vocabulary relating to a selection of topics. Teaching materials cover a
wide range of cultural, political and social topics relating to Japan and may
include short works of literature. There will be discussion in the target language
of topics derived from teaching materials, leading to small-scale research projects
based on the same range of topics and incorporating the use of press reports
and articles as well as audio and visual material. Students are encouraged to
devote time and energy to developing linguistic proficiency outside the timetabled
classes, for instance by additional reading and/or participating in informally
arranged conversation groups and in events at which Japanese is spoken. Audio
and video laboratories are available to augment classwork.
ESML0251: Japanese 3B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0250
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of Japanese Stage 3A
Content:
A continuation of Japanese Stage 3A
ESML0252: Spanish stage 1A (beginners) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0253
Aims & learning objectives:
An introduction to everyday Spanish, in order to enable the student to cope
at a basic level in a Spanish speaking environment, concentrating on oral/aural
communication and reading.
Content:
Initial emphasis will be placed on speaking, listening and reading. As vocabulary
is acquired more attention will be given to grammar. Writing tasks of a relevant
and appropriate nature will be incorporated. Audio and video laboratories are
available to augment classroom work
ESML0253: Spanish stage 1B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0252
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of Spanish Stage 1A
Content:
A continuation of Spanish Stage 1A
ESML0254: Spanish stage 2A (post beginners) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0255
Aims & learning objectives:
A course to build on language skills acquired in Spanish Stage 1A and 1B, to
enhance listening, reading, speaking and writing, and to consolidate grammar,
in order to enable students to operate in a Spanish-speaking environment.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures, vocabulary and pronunciation. Teaching
materials will include reading passages from a wide variety of sources as well
as topical and relevant audio and video material. Students are required to give
short presentations, conduct brief interviews and write dialogues, reports and
letters in Spanish. Audio and video laboratories are available to augment classroom
work.
ESML0255: Spanish stage 2B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0254
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of Spanish Stage 2A
Content:
A continuation of Spanish Stage 2A
ESML0256: Spanish stage 3A (advanced beginners) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0257
Aims & learning objectives:
This course builds on the Spanish covered in Spanish Stage 2A and 2B in order
to enhance the student's abilities in the four skill areas.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures and vocabulary relating to a selection
of topics. Teaching materials cover a wide range of cultural, political and
social topics relating to Spanish speaking countries and may include short works
of literature. There will be discussion in the target language of topics derived
from teaching materials, leading to small-scale research projects based on the
same range of topics and incorporating the use of press reports and articles
as well as audio and visual material. Students are encouraged to devote time
and energy to developing linguistic proficiency outside the timetabled classes,
for instance by additional reading and/or participating in informally arranged
conversation groups and in events at which Spanish is spoken. Audio and video
laboratories are available to augment classroom work.
ESML0257: Spanish stage 3B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0256
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of Spanish Stage 3A
Content:
A continuation of Spanish Stage 3A
ESML0258: Spanish stage 4A (intermediate) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0259
Aims & learning objectives:
A course to consolidate existing knowledge of Spanish, to develop listening,
reading, writing and speaking, and to reinforce grammar, in order to enable
students to operate in a Spanish-speaking environment.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures, vocabulary and pronunciation relating
to a selection of topics. Remedial work is carried out where necessary. Teaching
materials will include reading passages from a variety of sources as well as
topical and relevant audio and video material. Students are required to give
short presentations, conduct brief interviews and write dialogues, reports and
letters in Spanish. Audio and video laboratories are available to augment classroom
work.
ESML0259: Spanish stage 4B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co ESML0258
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of Spanish Stage 4A
Content:
A continuation of Spanish Stage 4A
ESML0260: Spanish stage 5A (post intermediate) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0261
Aims & learning objectives:
This course builds on the Spanish covered in Spanish Stage 4A and 4B in order
to enhance the student's abilities in the four skill areas.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures, vocabulary and pronunciation. Teaching
materials cover a wide range of cultural, political and social topics relating
to Spain and may include short works of literature. There will be discussion
in the target language of topics derived from teaching materials, leading to
small-scale research projects based on the same range of topics and incorporating
the use of press reports and articles as well as audio and visual material.
Students are encouraged to devote time and energy to developing linguistic proficiency
outside the timetabled classes, for instance by additional reading and/or participating
in informally arranged conversation groups and in events at which Spanish is
spoken. Audio and video laboratories are available to augment classroom work.
ESML0261: Spanish stage 5B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0260
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of Spanish Stage 5A
Content:
A continuation of Spanish Stage 5A
ESML0262: Spanish stage 6A (advanced intermediate) (6
credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0263
Aims & learning objectives:
This course concentrates on the more advanced aspects of Spanish with continued
emphasis on practical application of language skills in a relevant context,
in order to refine further the student's abilities.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures and vocabulary. There is continued
further development of the pattern of work outlined in Spanish Stage 5A and
5B
ESML0263: Spanish stage 6B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX45 CW40 OR15
Requisites: Co ESML0262
Aims & learning objectives:
A continuation of Spanish Stage 6A
Content:
A continuation of Spanish Stage 6A
ESML0439: Spanish Stage 7A (advanced) (6 credits)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
A course to consolidate, refine and enhance previous advanced knowledge of Spanish.
Students will be able to improve their receptive and productive language skills
in a variety of situations.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures and vocabulary. Teaching materials
cover a wide range of cultural, political and social topics relating to Spain
and may include short works of literature. There will be discussion in the target
language of topics derived from teaching materials, leading to small-scale research
projects based on the same range of topics and incorporating the use of press
reports and articles as well as audio and visual material. Students are encouraged
to devote time and energy to developing linguistic proficiency outside the timetabled
classes, for instance by additional reading and/or participating in informally
arranged conversation groups and in events at which Spanish is spoken. Audio
and video laboratories are available to augment classroom work.
ESML0440: Spanish stage 7B (6 credits)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Further consolidation and enhancement of the language already acquired in Spanish
Stage 7A. Students will be able to practise and further improve their receptive
and productive language skills in a variety of situations.
Content:
This unit contains a variety of listening, reading, speaking and writing tasks
covering appropriate grammatical structures and vocabulary. Teaching materials
cover a wide range of cultural, political and social topics relating to Spain
and may include short works of literature. There will be discussion in the target
language of topics derived from teaching materials, leading to small-scale research
projects based on the same range of topics and incorporating the use of press
reports and articles as well as audio and visual material. Students are encouraged
to devote time and energy to developing linguistic proficiency outside the timetabled
classes, for instance by additional reading and/or participating in informally
arranged conversation groups and in events at which Spanish is spoken. Audio
and video laboratories are available to augment classroom work.
MANG0069: Introduction to accounting & finance
Semester 2
Credits: 5
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX50 CW50
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To provide students undertaking any type of degree study with an introductory
knowledge of accounting and finance
Content:
The role of the accountant, corporate treasurer and financial controller Sources
and uses of capital funds Understanding the construction and nature of the balance
sheet and profit and loss account Principles underlying the requirements for
the publication of company accounts Interpretation of accounts - published and
internal, including financial ratio analysis Planning for profits, cash flow.
Liquidity, capital expenditure and capital finance Developing the business plan
and annual budgeting Estimating the cost of products, services and activities
and their relationship to price. Analysis of costs and cost behaviour
MANG0071: Organisational behaviour
Semester 1
Credits: 5
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX60 CW40
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To develop the student's understanding of people's behaviour within work organizations
Content:
Topics of study will be drawn from the following: The meaning of organising
and organisation Socialisation, organisational norms and organisational culture
Bureaucracy, organisational design and new organisational forms Managing organisational
change Power and politics Business ethics Leadership and team work Decision
-making Motivation Innovation Gender The future of work
MANG0072: Managing human resources
Semester 1
Credits: 5
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
The course aims to give a broad overview of major features of human resource
management. It examines issues from the contrasting perspectives of management,
employees and public policy.
Content:
Perspectives on managing human resources. Human resource planning, recruitment
and selection. Performance, pay and rewards. Control, discipline and dismissal.
MANG0073: Marketing
Semester 2
Credits: 5
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Ex MANG0016
Aims & learning objectives:
1. To provide an introduction to the concepts of Marketing. 2. To understand
the principles and practice of marketing management. 3. To introduce students
to a variety of environmental and other issues facing marketing today.
Content:
Marketing involves identifying and satisfying customer needs and wants. It is
concerned with providing appropriate products, services, and sometimes ideas,
at the right place and price, and promoted in ways which are motivating to current
and future customers. Marketing activities take place in the context of the
market, and of competition. The course is concerned with the above activities,
and includes: consumer and buyer behaviour market segmentation, targetting and
positioning market research product policy and new product development advertising
and promotion marketing channels and pricing
MANG0074: Business information systems
Semester 1
Credits: 5
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX60 CW25 OT15
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Information Technology (IT) is rapidly achieving ubiquity in the workplace.
All areas of the business community are achieving expansion in IT and investing
huge sums of money in this area. Within this changing environment, several key
trends have defined a new role for computers: a) New forms and applications
of IT are constantly emerging. One of the most important developments in recent
years has been the fact that IT has become a strategic resource with the potential
to affect competitive advantage: it transforms industries and products and it
can be a key element in determining the success or failure of an organisation.
b) Computers have become decentralised within the workplace: PCs sit on managers
desks, not in the IT Department. The strategic nature of technology also means
that managing IT has become a core competence for modern organisations and is
therefore an important part of the task of general and functional managers.
Organisations have created new roles for managers who can act as interfaces
between IT and the business, combining a general technical knowledge with a
knowledge of business. This course addresses the above issues, and, in particular,
aims to equip students with IT management skills for the workplace. By this,
we refer to those attributes that they will need to make appropriate use of
IT as general or functional managers in an information-based age.
Content:
Following on from the learning aims and objectives, the course is divided into
two main parts: Part I considers why IT is strategic and how it can affect the
competitive environment, taking stock of the opportunities and problems it provides.
It consists of lectures, discussion, case studies. The objective is to investigate
the business impact of IS. For example: in what ways are IS strategic? what
business benefits can IS bring? how does IS transform management processes and
organisational relationships? how can organisations evaluate IS? how should
IS, which transform organisations and extend across functions, levels and locations,
be implemented? Part II examines a variety of technologies available to the
manager and examines how they have been used in organisations. A number of problem-oriented
case studies will be given to project groups to examine and discuss. The results
may then be presented in class, and are open for debate. In summary, the aim
of the course is to provide the knowledge from which students should be able
to make appropriate use of computing and information technology in forthcoming
careers. This necessitates some technical understanding of computing, but not
at an advanced level. This is a management course: not a technical computing
course.
MANG0076: Business policy
Semester 2
Credits: 5
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX60 CW40
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To provide an appreciation of how organisations develop from their entrepreneurial
beginnings through maturity and decline . To examine the interrelationship between
concepts of policy and strategy formulation with the behavioural aspects of
business To enable students to explore the theoretical notions behind corporate
strategy Students are expected to develop skills of analysis and the ability
to interpret complex business situations.
Content:
Business objectives , values and mission; industry and market analysis ; competitive
strategy and advantage ; corporate life cycle; organisational structures and
controls .
MATH0009: Ordinary differential equations & control
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre MATH0001, Pre MATH0002, Pre MATH0003, Pre MATH0005
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: This course will provide standard results and techniques for solving systems
of linear autonomous differential equations. Based on this material an accessible
introduction to the ideas of mathematical control theory is given. The emphasis
here will be on stability and stabilization by feedback. Foundations will be
laid for more advanced studies in nonlinear differential equations and control
theory. Phase plane techniques will be introduced. Objectives: At the end of
the course, students will be conversant with the basic ideas in the theory of
linear autonomous differential equations and, in particular, will be able to
employ Laplace transform and matrix methods for their solution. Moreover, they
will be familiar with a number of elementary concepts from control theory (such
as stability, stabilization by feedback, controllability) and will be able to
solve simple control problems. The student will be able to carry out simple
phase plane analysis.
Content:
Systems of linear ODEs: Normal form; solution of homogeneous systems; fundamental
matrices and matrix exponentials; repeated eigenvalues; complex eigenvalues;
stability; solution of non-homogeneous systems by variation of parameters. Laplace
transforms: Definition; statement of conditions for existence; properties including
transforms of the first and higher derivatives, damping, delay; inversion by
partial fractions; solution of ODEs; convolution theorem; solution of integral
equations. Linear control systems: Systems: state-space; impulse response and
delta functions; transfer function; frequency-response. Stability: exponential
stability; input-output stability; Routh-Hurwitz criterion. Feedback: state
and output feedback; servomechanisms. Introduction to controllability and observability:
definitions, rank conditions (without full proof) and examples. Nonlinear ODEs:
Phase plane techniques, stability of equilibria.
MATH0017: Systems I: architecture & operating systems
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW25 EX75
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To introduce students to the structure, basic design, operation and programming
of conventional, von Neumann and non-von Neumann computers at the machine level.
To explore the correspondence between high level programming language control
and data structures and what happens at the machine level. Objectives: To understand
how the forms and conventions of high level languages are related to the machine
level. To experience how structured programming can be applied in low as well
as high level languages. To be able to assess the potential advantages and disadvantages
of different architectures and how these may affect system software such as
operating systems. To understand the basic functions and possible organizations
of operating system software.
Content:
Principles of digital computer operation: use of registers and the instruction
cycle; simple addressing concepts; Integers and floating point numbers. Input
and output. Introduction to digital logic. Aspects of modern computer architectures:
Von Neumann and Non von Neumann architectures and modern approaches to machine
design, including, for example, RISC (vs CISC) architectures. Topics in contemporary
machine design, such as pipelining; parallel processing and multiprocessors.
The interaction between hardware and software. Prototypical operating systems
and the history of operating systems. Program loaders (e.g. DOS, Windows), operating
systems (e.g. Windows, NT, Unix).
MATH0024: Information management
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX50 CW25 OT25
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To introduce students to basic techniques of statistics and database management.
Objectives: Students should have a practical ability to use statistical techniques
for exploration and summary of numerical data sets, and to use database techniques
to perform logical operations on data, and to search for data by using logical
combinations of ideas.
Content:
Introduction to statistics. Mean, standard deviation. Normal and Poisson distributions.
A simple introduction to confidence intervals and hypothesis testing. Elementary
tools for dealing with non-normal data. An introduction to correlation. Computational
experiments. Data bases. Notations of set theory. Data types and structures.
Hierarchical, network, and relational data bases. Some natural operations on
relations: union, projection, selection, Cartesian product, set difference.
Design of regional data bases. Access as an example of a data base system. The
integrated use of word processing, spreadsheets and relational data bases.
MATH0026: Projects & their management
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To gain experience of working with other people and, on a small-scale,
some of the problems that arise in the commercial development of software. To
appreciate the personal, corporate and public interest ethical problems arising
from all aspects of computer systems. To distinguish between scientific and
pseudo-scientific modes of presentation, and to encourage competence in the
scientific mode. Objectives: To carry out the full cycle of the first phase
of development of a software package, namely; requirements analysis, design,
implementation, documentation and delivery. To know the main terms of the Data
Protection Act and be able to explain its application in a variety of contexts.
To be able to design a presentation for a given audience. To be able to assess
a presentation critically.
Content:
Project Management: Software engineering techniques, Controlling software development,
Project planning/ Management, Documentation, Design, Quality Assurance, Testing.
Professional Issues: Ethical and legal matters in the context of information
technology. Personal responsibilities: to employer, society, self. Professional
responsibilities: codes of professional practice, Chartered Engineers. Legal
responsibilities: Data Protection Act, Computer Misuse Act, Consumer Protection
Act. Intellectual property rights. Whistle-blowing. Libel and slander. Confidentiality.
Contracts. Presentation Skills: How to construct a good explanation. How to
construct a good presentation. Sales and manipulative techniques, theatre, and
scientific clarity. Active listening and reading. Some items in the charlatan's
toolkit: jargon, pseudo-mathematics, ambiguity.
MATH0031: Statistics & probability 1
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Students must have A-level Mathematics, Grade B or better in order to undertake
this unit. Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To introduce some basic concepts in probability and statistics. Objectives:
Ability to perform an exploratory analysis of a data set, apply the axioms and
laws of probability, and compute quantities relating to discrete probability
distributions
Content:
Descriptive statistics: Histograms, stem-and-leaf plots, box plots. Measures
of location and dispersion. Scatter plots. Probability: Sample space, events
as sets, unions and intersections. Axioms and laws of probability. Probability
defined through symmetry, relative frequency and degree of belief. Conditional
probability, independence. Bayes' Theorem. Combinations and permutations. Discrete
random variables: Bernoulli and Binomial distributions. Mean and variance of
a discrete random variable. Poisson distribution, Poisson approximation to the
binomial distribution, introduction to the Poisson process. Geometric distribution.
Hypergeometric distribution. Negative binomial distribution. Bivariate discrete
distributions including marginal and conditional distributions. Expectation
and variance of discrete random variables. General properties including expectation
of a sum, variance of a sum of independent variables. Covariance. Probability
generating function. Introduction to the random walk.
MATH0032: Statistics & probability 2
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre MATH0031
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To introduce further concepts in probability and statistics. Objectives:
Ability to compute quantities relating to continuous probability distributions,
fit certain types of statistical model to data, and be able to use the MINITAB
package.
Content:
Continuous random variables: Density functions and cumulative distribution functions.
Mean and variance of a continuous random variable. Uniform, exponential and
normal distributions. Normal approximation to binomial and continuity correction.
Fact that the sum of independent normals is normal. Distribution of a monotone
transformation of a random variable. Fitting statistical models: Sampling distributions,
particularly of sample mean. Standard error. Point and interval estimates. Properties
of point estimators including bias and variance. Confidence intervals: for the
mean of a normal distribution, for a proportion. Opinion polls. The t-distribution;
confidence intervals for a normal mean with unknown variance. Regression and
correlation: Scatter plot. Fitting a straight line by least squares. The linear
regression model. Correlation.
MATH0033: Statistical inference 1
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre MATH0032
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: Introduce classical estimation and hypothesis-testing principles. Objectives:
Ability to perform standard estimation procedures and tests on normal data.
Ability to carry out goodness-of-fit tests, analyse contingency tables, and
carry out non-parametric tests.
Content:
Point estimation: Maximum-likelihood estimation; further properties of estimators,
including mean square error, efficiency and consistency; robust methods of estimation
such as the median and trimmed mean. Interval estimation: Revision of confidence
intervals. Hypothesis testing: Size and power of tests; one-sided and two-sided
tests. Examples. Neyman-Pearson lemma. Distributions related to the normal:
t, chi-square and F distributions. Inference for normal data:
Tests and confidence intervals for normal means and variances, one-sample problems,
paired and unpaired two-sample problems. Contingency tables and goodness-of-fit
tests. Non-parametric methods: Sign test, signed rank test, Mann-Whitney U-test.
MATH0035: Statistical inference 2
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX75 CW25
Requisites: Pre MATH0033
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: Introduce the principles of building and analysing linear models. Objectives:
Ability to carry out analyses using linear Gaussian models, including regression
and ANOVA. Understand the principles of statistical modelling.
Content:
One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA): One-way classification model, F-test,
comparison of group means. Regression: Estimation of model parameters, tests
and confidence intervals, prediction intervals, polynomial and multiple regression.
Two-way ANOVA: Two-way classification model. Main effects and interaction, parameter
estimation, F- and t-tests. Discussion of experimental design.
Principles of modelling: Role of the statistical model. Critical appraisal of
model selection methods. Use of residuals to check model assumptions: probability
plots, identification and treatment of outliers. Multivariate distributions:
Joint, marginal and conditional distributions; expectation and variance-covariance
matrix of a random vector; statement of properties of the bivariate and multivariate
normal distribution. The general linear model: Vector and matrix notation, examples
of the design matrix for regression and ANOVA, least squares estimation, internally
and externally Studentized residuals.
MATH0103: Foundation mathematics 1
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX50 CW50
Requisites: Co MATH0104
Aims & learning objectives:
Core 'A' level maths. The course follows closely the essential set book: L Bostock
& S Chandler, Core Maths for A-Level, Stanley Thornes ISBN 0 7487 1779 X
Content:
Numbers: Integers, Rationals, Reals. Algebra: Straight lines, Quadratics, Functions,
Binomial, Exponential Function. Trigonometry: Ratios for general angles, Sine
and Cosine Rules, Compound angles. Calculus: Differentiation: Tangents, Normals,
Rates of Change, Max/Min.
MATH0104: Foundation mathematics 2
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX50 CW50
Requisites: Co MATH0103
Aims & learning objectives:
Core 'A' level maths. The course follows closely the essential set book: L Bostock
& S Chandler, Core Maths for A-Level, Stanley Thornes ISBN 0 7487 1779 X
Content:
Integration: Areas, Volumes. Simple Standard Integrals. Statistics: Collecting
data, Mean, Median, Modes, Standard Deviation.
MATH0126: Introduction to contemporary computing
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To survey the diversity of contemporary computing practice, to give the
students confidence in the use of systems, and to foster a critical attitude
towards computing. To introduce programming in Matlab. To give the students
an opportunity for collaborative work, and to give presentations. To encourage
clear explanation. Objectives: To develop competence in the use of a wide variety
of computing systems, and a basis for intelligent criticism of them. To be able
to write simple programs in Matlab. To have some experience of collaborative
work. To sharpen verbal and written presentation skills.
Content:
A brief history of computing: from automated calculation to systems of interacting
processes. Modern systems and packages, e.g. for word processing and spreadsheets.
Scientific report writing, and bibliographic search. Using the internet to access
information. Web design. Operating systems (like UNIX and MSDOS) and utilities
to support programming (e.g. editors like Emacs); programming languages; compilers
and interpreters. Matlab as an example of a high-level package for scientific
programming. Programming in Matlab. Operators and control. Loops. Scripts and
functions. Group projects. Presentations.
MATH0134: Programming 1
Semester 1
Credits: 12
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW40 EX60
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To introduce students to the development of computer software, including
problem analysis, establishing requirements, designing, implementing and evaluating.
To provide practical skills at reading and writing programs and producing programs
to solve real world problems. Objectives: Students should be able to design,
construct and test short programs. They should be able to defend design decisions.
To understand the idea of type and to use data types appropriately. To be able
to develop iterative and recursive programs. To be able to read, and comprehend
the behaviour of, programs written by others. To be able to assess the complexity
of simple algorithms.
Content:
Introduction to computers and programming. Introduction to system development:
problem analysis, requirements synthesis; system design; evaluation. Scenario
based design. Algorithms. Control structures: sequence, selection and iteration.
Scope and extent. Simple data types. Testing. Object-orientation: reuse, inheritance,
classes, objects and methods. Recursion. Complexity.
MATH0135: Programming II
Semester 2
Credits: 12
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW60 EX40
Requisites: Pre MATH0134
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To continue the practice of the programming process begun in Programming
I. To extend the notion of object-oriented software development. To increase
practical skills at reading and writing programs and producing programs to solve
real world problems. Objectives: Students should be able to design, construct
and evaluate substantial programs, using libraries as appropriate. They should
be able to read, and comprehend the behaviour of, programs written by others.
Given a problem description, they should be able to design suitable software
systems.
Content:
Task based design. User interface design. Evaluation. Data structures. Algorithms
and complexity. Exception handling. Abstract data types and classes. Inheritance
vs composition. Abstract vs concrete classes. Self-referential classes. Event
handling. Graphics. Multithreading. Network programming.
MATH0138: Systems II: low-level programming & C
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW25 EX75
Requisites:
Some knowledge of programming, as approved by the Director of Studies
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To provide practical skills in low-level programming and basic computer
services Objectives: Students should be able to write short assembler-level
programs, and call basic (Chapter 1) Unix service using C. They should be able
to identify, use and package operating services. They should be able to write
short programs in ANSI C.
Content:
Assembler Programming: low level programming and structures. Registers, memory
and addressing modes. Subroutine structures, calling standards. Interrupts and
system calls. C Programming: C programming structures. String handling in C.
Input and output (both chapter 2 and chapter 3). Questioning the operating system
and filing system. Binary structures, relocation concepts.
MATH0145: Applications II: databases
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW40 EX60
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To introduce students to database concepts. To provide practical skills
at using database management systems, designing, using and managing databases.
To teach database theories. Objectives: Given a description of user requirements,
students should be able to design and build a database using a database management
system. They should be able to answer non-trivial theories using databases produced
by others. They should understand the importance of data protection and be able
to implement secure databases.
Content:
Introduction to databases and database management systems (DBMSs). User interaction
with databases. Functions of a DBMS. Data models and conceptual modelling. Sets
and relations. Union, intersection, relative complement, cross product, projection,
selection. Relations as subsets of cross products. Connection between logical
operations on ideas and set theoretic operations on relations. Logical database
design, physical database design. Entity-relationship modelling. Constraints.
Network and relational models. Completeness of relational models. Codd's classification
of canonical forms. : first, second, third and fourth normal forms. Keys, join,
SQL query language. Transaction management and database security. Data protection
legislation.
PHAR0010: Physiology, pathology & pharmacology 2 (General
pharmacology)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To introduce the student to general aspects of pharmacology and receptor theory.
Content:
Drug absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion; receptor theory; blood
and respiration pharmacology.
PHAR0016: Physiology, pathology & pharmacology 3 (Cardiovascular
& autonomic pharmacology)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: OT100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To develop an understanding of the action of drugs on the autonomic and cardiovascular
systems.
Content:
Understanding the action of drugs in the autonomic nervous system, kidney and
cardiovascular systems. Physiology, pathology and pharmacology of these systems.
PHAR0023: Physiology, pathology & pharmacology 4 (Pharmacology
of the central nervous system)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
An understanding of drugs affecting the brain and spinal cord.
Content:
Physiology, pathology and pharmacology of the brain and spinal cord.
PHAR0028: Physiology, pathology & pharmacology 5 (Pharmacology
of autocoids & immunology)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Understanding release of autocoids and the immune response.
Content:
Drugs affecting autocoids, inflammation and immune disorders. Natural science
students MUST take PHAR0029 at the same time as this unit.
PHAR0029: Physiology, pathology & pharmacology 6 (Pharmacology
of the endocrine system)
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
The action of drugs on the endocrine system.
Content:
Physiology, pathology and pharmacology of the endocrine system. Natural science
students MUST take PHAR0028 at the same time as this unit.
PHAR0051: Medicines design
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: ES100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
The unit aims to give the student a good understanding of the biological and
formulatory factors that may affect the therapeutic efficacy of drugs and an
overview of medicines.
Content:
Factors affecting the absorption of drugs, formulation of dosage forms, bioavailability
of drugs and methods for its modification.
PHYS0007: Mathematics for scientists 1
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites:
Students must have A-level Mathematics to undertake this unit. Aims & learning
objectives:
The aim of this unit is to introduce basic mathematical techniques required
by science students, both by providing a reinterpretation of material already
covered at A-level in a more general and algebraic form and by introducing more
advanced topics. After taking this unit the student should be able to - sketch
graphs of standard functions and their inverses - represent complex numbers
in cartesian, polar and exponential forms, and convert between these forms -
calculate the magnitude of a vector, and the scalar and vector products of two
vectors - solve standard geometrical problems involving vectors - evaluate the
derivative of a function and the partial derivative of a function of two or
more variables - write down the Taylor series approximation to a function.
Content:
Functions of a real variable (3 hours): Graphs of standard functions (polynomial,
exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric and hyperbolic functions). Domains and
ranges. Composite functions. Inverse functions. Symmetries and transformations
(reflections, rotation) of graphs. Polynomial curve fitting. Complex numbers
(4 hours): Definition and algebra of complex numbers in x+iy form. Complex conjugate.
Modulus and argument. Argand diagram, reiq form. De Moivre's theorem. Solution
of equations involving complex variables. Vector algebra (7 hours): Introduction
to vectors; physical examples of scalar and vector quantities. Magnitude of
a vector, unit vector. Cartesian components. Scalar product; projections, components,
physical examples. Vector product; determinantal form for Cartesian components,
physical examples. Geometrical applications of vectors. Triple product. Introduction
to vector spaces. Differentiation (10 hours): Limits and continuity, differentiability.
Review of differentiation. Higher derivatives, meaning of derivatives. Graphical
interpretation of derivatives. Logarithmic, parametric and implicit derivatives.
Taylor and Maclaurin expansions; remainder terms. Standard series. Convergence
of series; ratio test, limits, L'Hopital's rule. Functions of two variables.
Partial differentiation. Taylor expansion in two variables. Chain rule. Small
changes and differentials, total derivative.
PHYS0008: Mathematics for scientists 2
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Pre PHYS0007
Aims & learning objectives:
The aim of this unit is to introduce basic mathematical techniques required
by science students, both by providing a reinterpretation of material already
covered at A-level in a more general and algebraic form and by introducing more
advanced topics. After taking this unit the student should be able to - integrate
functions using a variety of standard techniques - find the general solution
to first and second order ordinary differential equations and show how a particular
solution may be found using boundary conditions - describe the form of the general
solution of partial differential equations - solve some first and second order
partial differential equations by means of separation of variables - calculate
the determinant and inverse of a matrix, and evaluate the product of two matrices
- use matrix methods to solve simple linear systems.
Content:
Integration (7 hours): Review of integration. Meaning of integration. Methods
of integration. Multiple integral, change of order of integration. Applications
of integration (area, volume, etc). Numerical integration methods. Ordinary
differential equations (8 hours): Origin of ODEs. Solution of first order ODEs
by integrating factors and separation of variables. Solution of second order
ODEs with constant coefficients. Complementary functions and particular integral.
Applications in the natural sciences; rate equations, population dynamics, oscillatory
systems, etc. Numerical solution of ODEs; Euler method, Runge-Kutta methods.
Introduction to partial differential equations (3 hours): Origin of PDEs. Solution
of PDEs by separation of variables. Wave equation in one dimension. Matrices
and determinants (6 hours): Introduction to matrices. Special matrices. Transpose
of a matrix. Matrix multiplication. Linear transformations. Introductions to
determinants. Inverse of a matrix. Simultaneous linear equations. Solution of
simultaneous equations; Gaussian elimination.
PHYS0013: Quantum & atomic physics
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Pre PHYS0008
Natural science students must have taken PHYS0048 in order to undertake this
unit. PHYS0001 and PHYS0005 are desirable as pre-requisites but not essential.
Aims & learning objectives:
The aims of this module are to introduce the Schröödinger wave equation
and its solution in one and three dimensions, and to explore the interactions
responsible for the electronic structure of atoms. After taking this unit the
student should be able to - explain the significance of the wavefunction in
determining the physical behaviour of electrons - show how quantisation arises
from boundary conditions - calculate energy levels in simple model systems -
outline the quantum mechanical description of the hydrogen atom - discuss the
energy levels, angular momenta and spectra of simple atoms, taking into account
screening, magnetic interactions and the exchange interaction - make simple
quantitative estimates of magnetic energies in atoms - use empirical rules to
establish the ground state terms and configurations of atoms.
Content:
Introduction: The breakdown of classical concepts. Old quantum theory. Basic
assumptions of quantum mechanics: wave functions and probability density. Observables;
position, momentum and energy. Schröödinger's equation: time dependence
of the wave function. Time-independent Schröödinger equation and stationary
states. Motion in one dimension: the infinite square well; bound state energies
and wave functions. Parity of solutions. Motion of free particles. Reflection
and transmission at a potential step. Bound states of a finite square well.
Tunnelling through a barrier. The harmonic oscillator. Motion in three dimensions:
central potentials. Angular dependence of solutions. Angular momentum quantum
numbers; s, p and d states. Spin angular momentum. Vector model of the atom.
Orbital and spin magnetic moments and their coupling in a one electron atom.
Fine structure in hydrogen. Factors affecting intensity of spectral lines. Effect
of the nuclear magnetic moment on atomic spectra: hyperfine structure, nuclear
magnetic resonance. Atoms with more than one electron: Pauli exclusion principle
and shell structure. Electron-electron interactions: screening and exchange
interaction. Nomenclature for labelling atomic configurations and terms. Hund's
rules. Fine structure and Zeeman effect in many-electron atoms. Factors affecting
width of spectral lines and introduction to high resolution spectroscopy.
PHYS0014: Electromagnetic waves & optics
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Pre PHYS0008
Natural science students must have taken PHYS0051 and PHYS0053 in order to undertake
this unit. PHYS0005 and PHYS0006 are desirable, but not essential, pre-requisites
for this unit. Aims & learning objectives:
The aims of this unit are to introduce the properties of electromagnetic plane
waves, to provide a mathematical framework for the understanding of the wave
nature of light and to describe the properties of simple optical devices. After
taking this unit the student should be able to - list the distinguishing features
of electromagnetic plane waves and write down a mathematical expression for
a linearly or circularly polarised light wave - construct ray diagrams for use
in solving simple geometrical optics problems - outline the mathematical analysis
of multiple-beam interference and hence interpret the output from a Fabry-Pérot
interferometer - discuss the concept of coherence with regard to the physical
properties of the source and the effect of partial coherence on fringe visibility
- derive mathematical expressions for simple diffraction patterns and relate
the limits imposed by diffraction to the performance of optical instruments
- describe how lasing action is obtained and maintained and outline the main
properties of laser light.
Content:
Electromagnetic plane waves: The em spectrum; sources and production of light;
wave and photon description; the optical region; Revision of 1D waves. 3D plane
waves, vector nature of em waves; relationships between E B and k. Polarisation.
Methods of obtaining linearly polarised light, Law of Malus. Circular and elliptical
polarisation. Energy and the Poynting vector. Impedance. Phase velocity, permittivity,
permeability. Refractive index and its microscopic origin. Concept of birefringence.
Dispersive waves; group velocity. Rays and waves: Optical path length. Huygen's
and Fermat's principles. Snell's Law and lenses; the focal plane. Geometric
optics and principles of the telescope and microscope. Interference and Coherence:
Interference with multiple beams. The interference term and fringe visibility.
Young's slits experiment. The Michelson and Mach-Zehnder interfermoters. Anti-reflection
coatings. The Fabry-Perot interferometer. Partial coherence and fringe visibility.
Coherence time and coherence length. Interference between N equally spaced sources.
Diffraction: Introduction to Fresnel diffraction; Fraunhofer diffraction as
far-field case. Derivation of Fraunhofer pattern for single slit, discussion
of circular aperture. The diffraction grating. Dispersion. Diffraction limits
on optical systems. Definition of resolution, Rayleigh criterion and resolving
power. Resolving power of the telescope and grating. Lasers: Interaction between
light and matter. The Einstein relations. Obtaining and maintaining lasing action.
The properties of laser light.
PHYS0016: Building blocks of the universe
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Pre PHYS0013
Natural science students must have taken PHYS0049 in order to undertake this
unit. Aims & learning objectives:
The aims of this unit are to give an overview of our current picture of elementary
particles and the forces between them, to describe properties and reactions
of atomic nuclei and to discuss how these enable us to understand the origin
of the Universe and the elements, stars and galaxies within it. After taking
this unit the student should be able to - describe the classification of fundamental
particles and explain terms used in their description - describe the characteristics
of the fundamental forces, and quote and use conservation laws to determine
allowed particle reactions - apply decay laws to problems in particle and nuclear
physics, and define and perform simple calculations on cross section and centre
of mass frame - discuss binding in nuclei and explain the energetics and mechanisms
of radioactive decay - describe the liquid drop and shell models of nuclei and
use them to calculate and interpret nuclear properties - describe the physical
processes involved in fission and fusion reactions and in stellar nucleosynthesis
- give a qualitative description of the early stages of the Universe and the
condensation of particles, nuclei and atoms from the primeval fireball.
Content:
Decays and Interactions: Particle decay laws, half-life and mean lifetime, generation
and decay. Particle kinematics and the discovery of the neutrino. Elementary
Particles: Quarks, leptons and mediators. Anti-particles. Hadrons (baryons and
mesons) in terms of multiplets. Baryon and lepton number. Fundamental Interactions:
The four forces. The exchange particle model and Feynman diagrams. The discovery
of the W and Z. Conservation laws. Unification of forces. The Nucleus: Nucleon
interactions and binding energy. Nuclear size and mass. Radioactive Decay: Beta-decay.
Electron and positron emission; K-capture. Alpha decay : energetics and simplified
tunnelling theory. The liquid drop model and semi-empirical mass formula. The
shell model, nuclear spin, excited states. Nuclear Reactions and Fission: Centre
of mass frame. Scattering, spontaneous fission, fission products. Induced fission,
chain reactions, delayed neutrons. Nuclear Fusion Reactions: Principles of fusion
reactions. The Cosmic Connection: Stellar nucleosynthesis The Big Bang re-visited.
Separation of unified forces. Inflation theory. Formation of elementary particles.
Cosmic nucleosynthesis. Dark matter in the universe. MACHOs, WIMPs and Winos.
PHYS0017: Introduction to solid state physics
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Pre PHYS0002, Pre PHYS0008, Pre PHYS0013
Aims & learning objectives:
The aims of this unit are to introduce students to the basic ideas that underlie
solid state physics, with emphasis on the behaviour of electrons in crystalline
structures, particularly in materials that are metallic or semiconducting. After
taking this unit the student should be able to - describe how allowed and forbidden
energy bands arise - describe how the properties of electrons in allowed energy
bands determine the behaviour of conducting and semiconducting solids - describe
how band structure theories lead to concepts such as effective mass and how
these are related to densities of states and carrier concentrations - describe
the factors that control the mobility and electrical conductivity - describe
the ways in which crystal structures are described formally and relate structures
in real space to those in reciprocal space - describe how the diffraction of
X-rays and of neutrons is related to the properties of the reciprocal lattice
and solve simple problems associated with the determinations of crystal structures
Content:
Classification of solids. Bonding forces; allowed and forbidden energy bands.
Basic crystal structures; translational symmetry; space lattices; unit cells;
Miller indices. The classical free electron theory and its failure. The quantum
free electron theory. The basic properties of metals; density of states and
the Fermi sphere. The effect of crystalline structure on electron behaviour:
allowed and forbidden energies from another viewpoint; introduction of momentum
(k) space. The distinction between metals, semiconductors and insulators. Energy
bands and effective masses; electrons and holes. Basic properties of semiconductors;
electron and hole concentrations and the effects of doping; donors and acceptors.
Transport properties: electrical conduction and scattering of electrons and
holes in solids; the Hall effect; cyclotron resonance. Diffraction of waves
in crystalline structures; Bragg law; the reciprocal lattice and Brillouin zones.
X-ray and neutron diffraction studies of crystal structures. The interaction
of light with solids.
PHYS0019: Mathematics for scientists 3
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Pre PHYS0008
Aims & learning objectives:
The aim of this unit is to introduce mathematical concepts and techniques required
by science students, and to show how these may be used for different applications.
It also aims to continue the development of students' problem-solving skills
and their understanding of mathematical results. After taking this unit the
student should be able to - evaluate Fourier series and Fourier and Laplace
transforms, and use their properties to solve problems - use transform methods
to solve differential equations - apply transform methods in image and signal
processing - find the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of matrices and apply these
to the diagonalisation of quadratic forms - calculate the normal modes of coupled
vibrational systems.
Content:
Transform methods (18 hours): Periodic functions. Harmonic synthesis. Representation
as Fourier series, and Fourier components. Truncated series. Fourier sine and
cosine series. Expansion of finite range functions. Applications of Fourier
series. Complex form of Fourier series and coefficients. Discrete amplitude
spectra. Transition to aperiodic functions: the Fourier transform. Integral
definition and properties of the Fourier transform. Use of tables in evaluating
transforms. Applications to image processing, solution of differential and integral
equations, and to physical systems. Convolution. Causal functions and the Laplace
transform. Integral definitions and properties of the Laplace transform. Use
of tables in evaluating transforms. Applications. Discrete Fourier transform.
Sampling theorem and applications to signal processing. Eigenvalues and eigenvectors
(6 hours): Revision of matrix algebra. Homogeneous linear equations. Eigenvalues
and eigenvectors of symmetric matrices and their properties. Linear transformations.
Diagonalisation of quadratic forms. Normal modes of vibration of ball and spring
systems.
PHYS0020: Mathematics for scientists 4
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Pre PHYS0019
Aims & learning objectives:
The aim of this unit is to introduce mathematical concepts and techniques required
by science students, and to show how these may be used for different applications.
It also aims to continue the development of students' problem-solving skills
and their understanding of mathematical results. After taking this unit the
student should be able to - define and transform between Cartesian, polar, spherical
polar and cylindrical polar coordinates, and parameterise and sketch curves,
surfaces and volumes within these coordinate systems - solve equations of motion
in Cartesian and polar coordinates - define scalar, vector and conservative
fields - perform line, surface and volume integrals - evaluate grad, div, curl
and Ѳ in Cartesian, polar, spherical polar and cylindrical
polar coordinates, and use and interpret vector integral theorems either - derive
and interpret Maxwell's equations and their solution in vacuum or o derive theorems
of analytic functions and use them to evaluate integrals.
Content:
Vector analysis (16 hours): Differentiation of vectors. Space curves; parameterisation
of curves, tangent vector. Polar coordinates; velocity and acceleration. Introduction
to scalar and vector fields. Directional derivative; gradient of a scalar field,
Ñ as a vector operator in Cartesian coordinates.
Introduction to div and curl in Cartesian coordinates; physical interpretation.
Identities involving Ñ; definition of Ѳ.
Tangential line integrals. Classification of fields; conservative fields, potential
functions, path independence of line integrals in conservative fields. Orthogonal
curvilinear coordinate systems; Cartesian, spherical polar and cylindrical polar
coordinates. Surface and volume integrals. Div and curl; definitions as limits
of integrals; explicit forms. Ѳ in spherical and
cylindrical polar coordinates. Vector integral theorems; divergence and Stokes
theorems, derivation and applications. Green's theorem and applications. EITHER
Introduction to Maxwell's equations (8 hours): Derivation of integral and differential
forms of Maxwell's equations and continuity equation. The wave equation in source-free
vacuum. Plane wave solutions. OR Functions of a complex variable (8 hours):
Differential functions, analytic functions, singularities, Cauchy-Riemann equations,
power series in a complex variable, elementary functions, principal values,
branch cuts. Complex integration; Cauchy's theorem and integral, zeroes and
poles, Laurent expansion, residue theorem, principal value of an integral, Jordan's
lemma, integration of simple functions, summation of series.
PHYS0024: Contemporary physics
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: ES100
Requisites:
Students should have taken an appropriate selection of Year 1 and Year 2 Physics
units in order to undertake this unit. Aims & learning objectives:
The aim of this unit is to enable students to find out about some of the most
exciting developments in contemporary Physics research. While taking this unit
the student should be able to - demonstrate good time management skills in allocating
appropriate amounts of time for the planning, research and writing of reports
- carry out literature searching methods for academic journals and computer-based
resources in order to research the topics studied - develop the ability to extract
and assimilate relevant information from extensive sources of information -
develop structured report writing skills - write a concise summary of each seminar,
at a level understandable by a final year undergraduate unfamiliar with the
subject of the seminar - write a detailed technical report on one of the seminar
subjects of the student's choice, displaying an appropriate level of technical
content, style and structure.
Content:
This unit will be based around 5 or 6 seminars from internal and external speakers
who will introduce topics of current interest in Physics. Students will then
choose one of these subjects on which to research and write a technical report.
Topics are likely to include recent developments in: Astrophysics and Cosmology;
Particle Physics; Medical Physics; Laser Physics; Semiconductor Physics; Superconductivity;
Quantum Mechanical Simulation of Matter.
PHYS0025: Equations of science
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Pre PHYS0007, Pre PHYS0008, Pre PHYS0019, Pre PHYS0020
Aims & learning objectives:
The aims of this unit are to introduce concepts and methods used in solving
some of the most important equations, both linear and non-linear, which arise
in the natural sciences, and to introduce students to a broad range of examples
and applications. After taking this unit the student should be able to - distinguish
linear and non-linear equations and contrast the different forms of solution
which arise - recognise some of the key equations which arise in the natural
sciences - apply the separation of variables method to linear partial differential
equations, and solve the resulting ordinary differential equations by series
solution - use superposition methods for inhomogeneous equations - determine
solutions to some of the key non-linear equations, and analyse non-linear ordinary
differential equations - analyse one-dimensional difference equations.
Content:
Linear equations of science (12 hours): Derivation of the diffusion equation
as an example of how partial differential equations arise in the natural sciences.
Introduction to Laplace's equation, Poisson's equation, wave equation, Schrodinger's
equation. Linearity and superposition. Boundary conditions. Solution by separation
of variables; examples showing separation in Cartesian, cylindrical and spherical
coordinate systems. Series solutions of differential equations; examples including
Legendre polynomials, spherical harmonics and Bessel functions. Solution of
inhomogeneous ODE's. Examples from the natural sciences. Non-linearity and chaos
(12 hours): Examples of non-linearity in the natural sciences; Non-linear wave
equations, solitary waves, physical examples. Nonlinear differential equations:
phase space, trajectories, fixed points, bifurcation. Examples from the natural
sciences. Non-linear difference equations: orbits, cobwebs, fixed points, bifurcations,
chaos. Examples from the natural sciences.
PHYS0030: Quantum mechanics
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites:
Students must have A-level Physics in order to undertake this unit and must
have undertaken appropriate maths units provided by either the Departments of
Physics or Mathematical Sciences. Aims & learning objectives:
The aims of this unit are to show how a mathematical model of considerable elegance
may be constructed, from a few basic postulates, to describe the seemingly contradictory
behaviour of the physical universe and to provide useful information on a wide
range of physical problems. After taking this unit the student should be able
to: - discuss the dual particle-wave nature of matter - explain the relation
between wave functions, operators and experimental observables - justify the
need for probability distributions to describe physical phenomena - set up the
Schröödinger equation for simple model systems - derive eigenstates of
energy, momentum and angular momentum - apply approximate methods to more complex
systems.
Content:
Introduction: Breakdown of classical concepts. Old quantum theory. Quantum mechanical
concepts and models: The "state" of a quantum mechanical system. Hilbert space.
Observables and operators. Eigenvalues and eigenfunctions. Dirac bra and ket
vectors. Basis functions and representations. Probability distributions and
expectation values of observables. Schrodinger's equation: Operators for position,
time, momentum and energy. Derivation of time-dependent Schrodinger equation.
Correspondence to classical mechanics. Commutation relations and the Uncertainty
Principle. Time evolution of states. Stationary states and the time-independent
Schrodinger equation. Motion in one dimension: Free particles. Wave packets
and momentum probability density. Time dependence of wave packets. Bound states
in square wells. Parity. Reflection and transmission at a step. Tunnelling through
a barrier. Linear harmonic oscillator. Motion in three dimensions: Stationary
states of free particles. Central potentials; quantisation of angular momentum.
The radial equation. Square well; ground state of the deuteron. Electrons in
atoms; the hydrogen atom. Hydrogen-like atoms; the Periodic Table. Spin angular
momentum: Pauli spin matrices. Identical particles. Symmetry relations for bosons
and fermions. Pauli's exclusion principle. Approximate methods for stationary
states: Time independent perturbation theory. The variational method. Scattering
of particles; the Born approximation.
PHYS0031: Simulation techniques
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Pre PHYS0020
Aims & learning objectives:
The aims of this unit are to identify some of the issues involved in constructing
mathematical models of physical processes, and to introduce major techniques
of computational science used to find approximate solutions to such models.
After taking this unit the student should be able to - dedimensionalise an equation
representing a physical system - discretise a differential equation using grid
and basis set methods - outline the essential features of each of the simulation
techniques introduced - give examples of the use of the techniques in contemporary
science - use the simulation schemes to solve simple examples by hand - describe
and compare algorithms used for key processes common to many computational schemes.
Content:
Construction of a mathematical model of a physical system; de-dimensionalisation,
order of magnitude estimate of relative sizes of terms. Importance of boundary
conditions. The need for computed solutions. Discretisation using grids or basis
sets. Discretisation errors. The finite difference method; review of ODE solutions.
Construction of difference equations from PDEs. Boundary conditions. Applications.
The finite element method; Illustration of global, variational approach to solution
of PDEs. Segmentation. Boundary conditions. Applications. Molecular Dynamics
and Monte-Carlo Methods; examples of N-body problems, ensembles and averaging.
The basic MD strategy. The basic MC strategy; random number generation and importance
sampling. Applications in statistical mechanics. Simulated annealing. Computer
experiments. Solving finite difference problems via random walks. Other major
algorithms of computational science; the Fast Fourier Transform, matrix methods,
including diagonalisation, optimisation methods, including non-linear least
squares fitting.
PHYS0048: Introduction to quantum physics [NS]
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX70 CW20 PR10
Requisites: Co PHYS0049
Aims & learning objectives:
The aims of this unit are to review the evidence for the existence of atoms
and the scientific developments which reveal the breakdown of classical physics
at the atomic level, and to introduce the ideas of energy and angular momentum
quantisation and the dual wave-particle nature of matter. After taking this
unit the student should be able to - identify the historical evidence for the
atomic nature of matter - describe the Bohr, Thomson and Rutherford models of
the atom and the origin of quantisation of energy - discuss the concepts of
wave/particle duality, probability distributions and wavefunctions - perform
simple calculations on atomic line spectra - explain the origin of the periodic
table.
Content:
The constituents of the atom: Quantum and classical domains of physics. Existence
of atoms. Avogadro's number. Electrons and ions. The mass spectrograph. Atomic
mass units. Structure of atoms; scattering of alpha-particles and Rutherford's
model. Photons and energy quantisation: Black-body radiation; the ultraviolet
catastrophe and Plancks hypothesis. Photoelectric effect. The electromagnetic
spectrum. X-rays. Compton scattering. Sources of photons; the Bohr model of
the atom. Deficiencies of Bohr's model. Wave-particle duality: An introduction
to waves. Wave-like properties of photons and other particles; inadequacies
of classical models. De Broglie's hypothesis. Electron diffraction. Electron
microscopy. Wave aspects of larger particles; atoms, molecules, neutrons. The
uncertainty principle. Introduction to quantum mechanics: Probability distributions.
Introduction to Schrodinger's wave equation. Energy levels for hydrogen. Quantum
numbers. Electron spin. The exclusion principle. The periodic table. Optical
and X-ray spectra. Shells, valency and chemical bonding. Students must have
A-level Physics and A-level Mathematics in order to undertake this unit. Those
students without A-level Mathematics must take MATH0103.
PHYS0049: Relativity & astrophysics [NS]
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX70 CW20 PR10
Requisites: Co PHYS0048
Aims & learning objectives:
The aims of this unit are to introduce the concepts and results of special relativity
and to provide a broad introduction to astronomy and astrophysics. An additional
aim is that the student's appreciation of important physical phenomena such
as gravitation and blackbody radiation should be reinforced through their study
in astrophysical contexts. After taking this unit, the student should be able
to - write down the essential results and formulae of special relativity - describe
the important special relativity experiments (real or thought) - solve simple
kinematic and dynamical special relativity problems - give a qualitative account
of how the sun and planets were formed - describe how stars of differing masses
evolve - give a simple description of the expanding Universe and its large-scale
structure - solve simple problems concerning orbital motion, blackbody radiation,
cosmological redshift, stellar luminosity and magnitude.
Content:
Gravitation. Gravitational force and potential energy. Weight and mass. Circular
orbits; Kepler's Laws; planetary motion. Escape velocity. Solar System. Earth-Moon
system. Terrestrial planets; Jovian planets. Planetary atmospheres. Comets and
meteoroids. Formation of the solar system. Stellar Evolution. Structure of the
sun. Stellar distances, magnitudes, luminosities; black-body radiation; stellar
classification; Hertzsprung-Russell diagram. The interstellar medium and star
birth. Star death: white dwarfs, neutron stars, black holes. Galaxies. Galactic
structure; classification of galaxies. Formation and evolution of galaxies.
Active galactic nuclei and quasars. Astrophysical jets. Astrophysical Techniques.
Telescopes and detectors. Invisible astronomy: X-rays, gamma-rays, cosmic rays,
infrared and radio astronomy. Special Relativity. Galilean transformation. Speed
of light - Michelson-Morley experiment; Einstein's postulates. Simultaneity;
time dilation; space contraction; invariant intervals; rest frames; proper time;
proper length. Causality. Lorentz transformation. Relativistic momentum, force,
energy. Doppler effect. General Relativity. Gravity and geometry. The principle
of equivalence. Deflection of light; curvature of space. Gravitational time
dilation. Red shift. Black holes. The Universe. Large scale structure of the
Universe. Hubble's Law. The expanding universe. The hot Big Bang. Cosmic background
radiation and ripples therein. History of the universe. The missing mass problem.
PHYS0050: Introduction to electronics [NS]
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX70 CW20 PR10
Requisites: Co PHYS0051
Aims & learning objectives:
The aim of this unit is to provide an introduction to electronics by developing
an understanding of basic concepts in dc and ac electric circuits and digital
electronics. After taking this unit the student should be able to - use a systematic
analysis method (e.g. nodal voltage) to calculate currents and voltages in passive
dc circuits - calculate the amplitude and phase of voltages and currents in
ac circuits by means of phasor analysis - analyse simple operational amplifier
circuits from first principles - analyse simple logic circuits containing gates
and flip-flops - use Boolean algebra and Karnaugh maps to simplify logic expressions
- design logic circuits to implement basic tasks.
Content:
DC Circuits: Kirchoff's voltage and current laws. Analysis of simple circuits
using nodal voltage technique. Ideal voltage and current sources. Equivalent
circuits. Thevenin's and Norton's theorems. Diodes. Ideal Operational Amplifiers:
Theory of ideal operational amplifiers. Simple applications e.g. inverting and
non-inverting amplifiers, addition and subtraction. Transients: Techniques for
solving for transient waveforms in simple circuits involving inductors and capacitors.
Initial conditions. AC Circuits: AC voltage and current concepts (phase, rms
value, amplitude etc.). Capacitors and inductors as circuit elements. Phasors
and phasor notation. Complex impedance. LCR circuits (resonance, Q factor etc).
Frequency dependence of circuits. Bode plots. Combinational Logic: Digital and
analog electronics. Combinational logic. Representation of logic levels. AND,
OR and NOT gates. Truth tables. XOR, NAND and NOR. Boolean algebra: Notation,
laws, identities and De Morgan's Laws. Standard sum of products. Manipulation
between forms. Karnaugh maps: 2,3 and 4 variables. Simplification. PAL. Logic
gates and characteristics: Basic implementation of gates using discrete devices
(AND using resistors and diodes). Limitations. Logic family characteristics:
Fan out, noise margin and propagation delay. Combinational functions: Adder,
decoder, encoder, multiplexer, demultiplexer, ROM structure. Sequential logic:
Latch, SR flip-flop and JK flip-flop. Shift register. Ripple and synchronous
counters. Synchronous counter design. Basic RAM structure. Introduction to microprocessors
(68000 based): Binary arithmetic. A simple microprocessor architecture and operation.
Concepts of buses, input/output, DMA and interrupts. Students must have A-level
Physics in order to undertake this unit.
PHYS0051: Electricity & magnetism [NS]
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX70 CW20 PR10
Requisites: Co PHYS0050
Aims & learning objectives:
The aims of this unit are to introduce the fundamental laws of electricity and
magnetism and to develop techniques used in the solution of simple field problems,
both vector and scalar. After taking this unit the student should be able to
- state the basic laws of electricity and magnetism - define scalar and vector
fields and represent them graphically - determine the forces due to electric
and magnetic fields acting on charges and currents - determine electric fields,
potentials and energies due to simple, static charge distributions - determine
magnetic fields and energies due to simple, steady current distributions - determine
electric fields, e.m.f.s and induced currents due to varying magnetic fields.
Content:
Introduction to scalar and vector fields. Electrostatics Electric forces and
fields. Electric charge, Coulomb's Law, superposition of forces, electric charge
distribution, the electric field, electric flux, Gauss's Law, examples of field
distributions, dipole moment, energy of a system of charges. Electric potential.
Line integral of the electric field, potential difference, calculation of fields
from potential, examples of potential distributions, energy associated with
electric field. Electric field around conductors, conductors in an electric
field, capacitors and their capacitance, energy stored. Magnetic fields. Magnetic
force on a moving charge, definition of magnetic field, Lorentz force, force
on a current carrying wire, force between current carrying wires, torque on
a current loop. magnetic moment, Biot-Savart Law, Ampere's Law, magnetic flux,
Gauss's Law, field in loops and coils. Electromagnetic Induction. Induced emf
and examples, Faraday's Law, Lenz's Law, energy stored in a magnetic field,
self and mutual inductance, energy stored in an inductor. Students must have
A-level Physics in order to undertake this unit.
PHYS0052: Properties of matter [NS]
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX70 PR10 CW20
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
The aims of this unit are to gain insight into how the interplay between kinetic
and potential energy at the atomic level governs the formation of different
phases and to demonstrate how the macroscopic properties of materials can be
derived from considerations of the microscopic properties at the atomic level.
After taking this unit the student should be able to - use simple model potentials
to describe molecules and solids - solve simple problems for ideal gases using
kinetic theory - describe the energy changes in adiabatic and isothermal processes
- derive thermodynamic relationships and analyse cycles - derive and use simple
transport expressions in problems concerning viscosity, heat and electrical
conduction.
Content:
Balance between kinetic and potential energy. The ideal gas - Kinetic Theory;
Maxwell- Boltzmann distribution; Equipartition. The real gas - van der Waal's
model. The ideal solid - model potentials and equilibrium separations of molecules
and Madelung crystals. Simple crystal structures, X-ray scattering and Bragg's
law. First and second laws of thermodynamics, P-V-T surfaces, phase changes
and critical points, thermodynamic temperature and heat capacity of gases. Derivation
of mechanical (viscosity, elasticity, strength, defects) and transport properties
(heat and electrical conduction) of gases and solids from considerations of
atomic behaviour. Qualitative understanding of viscosity (Newtonian and non-Newtonian)
in liquids based on cage models.
PHYS0053: Mechanics & waves [NS]
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX70 PR10 CW20
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
The aims of this unit are to present students with a clear and logical guide
to classical mechanics, to strengthen their understanding of mechanics by means
of practical problems and to introduce them to the fundamental concepts and
mathematical treatment of waves. After taking this unit the student should be
able to - apply Newton's laws to solve simple real world problems and gain insight
into microscopic processes at the atomic level - use vector notation and methods
to solve problems in rotational dynamics - analyse oscillating systems under
different driving regimes - apply the wavefunction for a one-dimensional travelling
wave to problems involving mechanical, acoustic, water and electromagnetic waves
- define and derive the impedance of a mechanical wave and apply it to reflection
and transmission at interfaces - analyse interference and diffraction arising
from simple one-dimensional structures - derive and apply the formulae for the
non-relativistic Doppler effect.
Content:
Dimensions and Units: fundamental SI units, measurement standards, dimensional
analysis. Newton's Laws of Motion. Motion in 1D and 2D with constant and non-constant
acceleration. Linear momentum, collisions, rockets. Work and Energy, potential
energy, conservative and non-conservative forces.Circular motion; Rigid body
rotation: moments of inertia; torque and angular momentum as vectors; equations
of motion of rotating bodies; gyroscopes. Simple Harmonic Motion including damped,
forced; resonance. Coupled oscillations and introduction to normal modes Travelling
waves; strings, sound, water, particle and light waves. Mathematical representation;
sinusoidal waves; amplitude, frequency, wavelength, wavenumber, speed, energy,
intensity and impedance. General differential equation for 1D wave. Complex
exponential notation. Superposition; Wave interference, reflection and transmission
at boundaries. Dispersive and non-dispersive waves, phase and group velocity.
Beats. Michelson interferometer. Doppler effect.
PSYC0001: Psychology 1
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: ES100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
The aim of this unit is to introduce students to basic concepts and current
themes and debates within psychology. Students will understand basic ideas in
psychology and have a familiarity with some classic studies and methods. They
will understand how psychologists approach problems of mental processing.
Content:
Lectures will be broadly based on the question "Who am I"? They will put forward
the idea that in order to understand ourselves and our behaviour we need to
remember that we are members of human societies with histories and cultural
traditions: that who we are is, at least in part, determined by those around
us, our families and our friends and the social groups to which we belong. The
topics covered include: society and the individual, conformity and deviance,
gender and social identity, the self, language and social life, thinking and
reasoning, personality, life-span developments, clinical psychology.
PSYC0007: Developmental psychology
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites:
Students must have taken one of the following units: Psychology 1 (PSYC0001),
Becoming a social person (PSYC0057), or The intelligent being (PSYC0058). Aims
& learning objectives:
To provide an understanding of human development from infancy to old age. Students
will understand how psychologists approach human development, and the main theoretical
approaches. They will understand the specific methodological requirements of
developmental psychology. They will understand the role of culture in human
development.
Content:
This unit combines an overview of key issues in theory and method in the study
of human development and addresses questions of relevance to future practitioners
in psychology and other social services. How does the 'well-equipped strange'
infant become a competent adult? How does language develop? The role of culture
in individual development. Life 'crises' and normal transitions. How does the
growing individual become a moral and social agent? The development of 'self'.
PSYC0009: Social psychology
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre PSYC0001
Aims & learning objectives:
To understand the relationship between individual, social and cultural psychological
processes Students will understand the ways in which psychologists approach
problems of communication and the construction of meaning. They will be familiar
with the debates about the individual and the social and cultural context.
Content:
Language as dialogue and social negotiation. Rhetoric and discourse: how to
persuade, argue, negotiate and interpret. The construction and communication
of representation of meaning. The relationships between individual schemas,
representations and lay theories, and social and cultural repertoires. Effective
and ineffective communication. The role of metaphor and narrative in individual
and cultural meaning.
PSYC0010: Clinical psychology
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre PSYC0001, Pre PSYC0002
Aims & learning objectives:
To introduce the work of clinical psychologists in the main areas of Adult Mental
Health, Learning Disabilities and work with older adults. At the end of the
course students should be able to set this work within the context of organisational
change within the NHS and to contrast a psychological approach with other approaches,
such as those of psychiatry. Students will also have more extensive knowledge
of a specific psychotherapeutic technique.
Content:
The basis of psychiatric diagnosis; introduction to counselling and psychotherapy;
depression; loss and bereavement; anxiety; schizophrenia; learning disabilities;
older adults; eating disorders; the context of work and evaluating interventions.
PSYC0020: Artificial lives: Simulation, modelling &
visualisation of complex systems
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: PR60 ES40
Requisites: Ex PSYC0062
Aims & learning objectives:
This unit allows students to develop their understanding of recent applications
of computer modeling and simulation techniques to cognitive and social processes.
Students will be required to examine the literature relating to two influential
developments simulation techniques. No prior programming or modeling experience
is necessary, but practical work with simulation software will be expected.
Students will understand the application of current research techniques in AI
and simulation to the explanation of consciousness and to the exploration of
the dynamics of group processes, and demonstrate basic familiarity with simulation
software and the evaluation of its use.
Content:
This course explores the application of biological models in AI and to social
processes. Students will be expected to understand the applications of computer
simulation in the natural and social sciences, the methods of two major research
projects(in cognitive psychology or a social science), and the implications
of computer simulation for psychological theories of communication, social interaction,
cognition, brain function and consciousness. Students will undertake practical
projects in the form of experiments with computer models and simulation programs,
and the evaluation of such programs, which will be written up as a project report.
This unit shares teaching with the postgraduate unit of the same title PSYC0062.
PSYC0024: About science 1: history, philosophy & sociology
of science
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
About Science 1 introduces the main views of the nature of scientific research
and of technological progress. The course aims to familiarise students with
changing views of science and its interaction with society and of the nature
of scientific method, and also to develop students communication skills.
Content:
In addition to views of philosophers, historians and sociologists such as Popper,
Lakatos and Kuhn, accounts by working scientists will also be considered. Source
materials include video films, WWWeb sites and the book and journal articles.
All students write a book review and an essay or project report, and will develop,
present and defend their own views on one of a number of seminar topics.
PSYC0025: About science 2: discovery, dissemination
& status of scientific knowledge
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 CW50
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Continues to develop and evaluate several main views of the nature of scientific
method introduced in the precursor unit (PSYC0024), using historical case studies
of scientific discoveries and controversies. This unit goes on to deal with
the research process, the application of science in technology and medicine,
and the problematic status of science in relation to its cultural context.
Content:
Students are expected to develop an analytical and critical approach to ideas
and opinions about science, and to master the use of documentary sources. All
students prepare an essay and also present and defend their own views on in
an assessed seminar presentation.
PSYC0026: Public knowledge 3a: history, philosophy &
sociology of science
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: ES75 CW25
Requisites: Pre PSYC0008
Students must have taken either Cognitive Psychology (PSYC0008) or About science
2 (PSYC0025) in order to take this unit. Aims & learning objectives:
The course aims to enable students to develop an informed and critical view
of the nature of all aspects of scientific activity and the problems arising
from the differences between scientific and other approaches to problems.
Content:
Scientific, Expert and Lay Knowledge; Science and Public Understanding; Public
Acceptance of Science and Technology; Science and Public Policy; Science and
other Modes of Knowledge. The course is seminar based with considerable directed
reading. All students will read and discuss a number of key authors in the seminars,
will be expected to evaluate a number of television programs about science,
and will undertake a research project.
PSYC0057: Becoming a social person
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre PSYC0001
Aims & learning objectives:
To equip the student with an understanding of how we become 'social beings'.
Students will understand the core questions of social psychology and the development
of social processes. They will be acquainted with classic studies in social
and developmental psychology and the ways in which psychologists have approached
the social nature of the human.
Content:
The unit will use 'classic' studies in social and developmental psychology to
address the following: How do we form early relationship and attachment? How
do we make friends? How do we form impressions of others? How do we behave in
groups? How do groups affect our identity? What is the basis of prejudice, discrimination
and inter-group relations? How do we develop and change our beliefs and attitudes?
PSYC0058: The intelligent being
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre PSYC0001
Aims & learning objectives:
To provide a foundation understanding of cognitive processes. The student will
understand the basic questions that psychologists have addressed regarding learning,
memory and reasoning. They will have been introduced to the methods and theories
by which research has been conducted in general psychology.
Content:
This unit will introduce some of the classic studies which address the questions:
How do we learn? How do we remember? How do we reason and solve problems? How
have psychologists thought about learning, remembering and reasoning? How have
psychologists thought about intelligence and how has it been measured? How does
intelligence develop? What is the role of emotion in our understanding of the
world? What can we learn from the errors we make? The unit will highlight different
approaches in psychology and where they contrast.
PSYC0059: The cultures of belief
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: ES70 PR30
Requisites: Co PSYC0060, Ex PSYC0046
Aims & learning objectives:
This unit provides an historical exposition of the changing relationship between
major religious traditions and western science, and a critical discussion of
theses about the ways in which religion and science interact. Students will
be expected to demonstrate, through written assignments and seminar discussion,
that they have mastered the arguments of at least two main authors or schools
and can make a critical appraisal of these arguments.
Content:
Attention will be given to historical and philosophical views of the nature
of religion and of science, theses about their interaction (e.g., conflict,
independence, interdependence); each of the main theses will be examined in
the light of recent historical and critical studies. The application by popular
science writers of core scientific theories to religious and metaphysical themes
is also explored. This unit shares teaching with the postgraduate unit The cultures
of belief (PSYC0046).
PSYC0060: Science & religion
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: ES70 OR30
Requisites: Co PSYC0059, Ex PSYC0047
Aims & learning objectives:
This unit examines the roles of religious and scientific traditions in western
culture with particular reference to Christian theology, traditions and religious
practices, in order to provide (1) an deeper understanding of the cultural context
of the ways in which Christianity and western science interact and (2) an analytical
basis to evaluate claims about the implications of religious beliefs and practices
for science and of scientific developments for Christianity. Students will be
expected to demonstrate, through written assignments and seminar discussion,
that they have mastered the arguments of at least two main authors or schools
and can make a critical appraisal of these arguments.
Content:
Studies of the cultural context of historical and philosophical views of the
nature of religion and of science; critical analysis of theses about their interaction;
examination and appraisal of historical and contemporary claims about the implications
of science for religions and of religion for science; implications for Public
Understanding of Science, esp. the place of science in post-modern culture.
Students will be expected to demonstrate through seminar discussion, an assessed
oral presentation and an essay that they have mastered the arguments of the
main authors or protagonists and can make a critical appraisal of their arguments.
This unit shares teaching with the postgraduate unit Science & religion (PSYC0047).
SCNC0045: Human physiology (Physiology,
pathology & pharmacology 1)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: OT100
Requisites: Ex PHAR0178
Aims & learning objectives:
The aim of this unit is to provide an overview of human physiology, with particular
emphasis on how the major systems of the body are integrated and controlled.
After taking this unit, the student should be able to (a) demonstrate an understanding
of the structure and function of the major physiological systems of the human
body, and (b) demonstrate knowledge of how the function of major organs and
systems is integrated and regulated.
Content:
Cell membranes as controllable permeability barriers within and between cells
and the external medium; neuronal conduction, synapses and the neuromuscular
junction, cholinergic neurones; Muscle types, activation and contraction; the
autonomic nervous system; the central nervous system; the endocrine system;
physiology of the cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal and renal systems
to understand how the major systems of the body are integrated and controlled.
SPOR0009: Physiology of sports performance
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX70 PR30
Requisites: Pre SPOR0001, Pre SPOR0005, Pre BIOL0089
Aims & learning objectives:
To introduce the concepts of physiological adaptation to training for sport
and develop knowledge of associated basic laboratory techniques. On completion
of this unit students should be able to: Understand how the body adapts to exercise
and appreciate the specificity of training. Understand the appropriate techniques
that are available for the investigation of changes that occur with regular
training. Understand and be able to determine oxygen uptake, energy expenditure
during exercise, mechanical efficiency, and peak power in a laboratory environment.
Understand the physiological factors that limit performance across a range of
different modes of exercise.
Content:
Energy expenditure, measurement of work and power. Skeletal muscle; structure
function and adaptations to training. Circulatory adaptations to exercise; adaptations
to training. Respiratory responses to exercise; limitations to maximal performance.
Acid-base balance. Physiology and principles of training; evaluating performance.
SPOR0015: Physiology of fitness and health
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX70 CW30
Requisites: Pre SPOR0005, Pre SPOR0009
Aims & learning objectives:
To introduce the physiological adaptations that occur as a result of regular
exercise and to understand how these adaptations may improve health, fitness
and well-being. On completion of this unit students should be able to: Understand
some of the relationships between exercise, health and fitness. Determine key
aspects of health and fitness in a wide range of the population including specific
groups such as the sedentary and elderly. Evaluate the results of certain health/fitness
tests and begin to prescribe forms of exercise that would elicit improvements
in health/fitness.
Content:
Factors limiting health and fitness. Work tests to evaluate cardiorepiratory
fitness. Training for Health and Fitness. Exercise and the musculoskeletal and
Neauromuscular systems. Body composition Nutrition and Health.
UNIV0001: Environmental studies: The earth as an ecosystem
B
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX75 CW25
Requisites: Co ENGR0002
Aims & learning objectives:
To develop an understanding of the global impact of human agricultural and industrial
activity and of the relationship between the technical and some social and economic
aspects of the topic.
Content:
Global human impact: population and consumption levels Early mankind and the
domestication of other species. The agricultural and industrial revolutions.
Improvements in healthcare and education. Demographic trends. Sustainable economic
development. Equitable distribution of resources. Policies and institutions
Atmospheric and ground level pollution Structure and dynamics of the atmosphere.
Photochemical cycles involving O, N and Cl species. Factors affecting ozone
concentrations. The Greenhouse effect. Photochemical smog and acid rain considered
via case studies. Speciation of anionic and cationic water pollutants. Biomagnification
and heavy metals. Radioactivity and nuclear reactors; reprocessing and waste
storage. Seminar programme Seminars combined with a student exercise such as
a case study or essay are intended to encourage students to integrate the syllabus
content and to relate it to a wider social and economic context.
UNIV0024: Project (semester 1)
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co UNIV0025
Aims & learning objectives:
To obtain substantial experience of project work within the disciplines involved
Content:
This will depend on the disciplines involved. Often it will involve laboratory
and or field work. Usually a literature search will be involved.
UNIV0025: Project (semester 2)
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co UNIV0024
Aims & learning objectives:
To obtain substantial experience of project work within the disciplines involved
Content:
This will depend on the disciplines involved. Often it will involve laboratory
and or field work. Usually the writing of a dissertation reporting the work
done will be involved
UNIV0026: Industrial placement/ training
Academic Year
Credits: 60
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment:
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Biological Sciences, Materials Science, or
Management
Content:
To obtain substantial experience of working at an intellectual level appropriate
to a student who has completed the second year of a degree course.
UNIV0033: Study year abroad
Academic Year
Credits: 60
Contact:
Level: Level 2
Assessment:
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To assist the student to develop personal and interpersonal communication skills
and to develop the ability to work and interact effectively in a group environment
in which cultural norms and ways of operating may be very different from those
previously familiar. To develop an understanding of the stresses that may occur
in working in a culture different from the UKs, and to learn to cope with those
stresses and work efficiently. To develop the self-confidence and maturity to
operate effectively with people from a different cultural background. To develop
an appreciation of the history and culture of the country concerned. For students
attending classes in a language other than English, to develop the ability to
operate at a high scientific level in the language of the country concerned,
including oral communication and comprehension as well as reading and writing.
For students attending Universities in countries whose language is not English,
oral and written fluency in the host language.
Content:
It is assumed that the student abroad will accomplish work equivalent to 60
University of Bath credits (10 units). Details of these are necessarily left
to negotiation with individual University, students and the Bath Director of
Studies. In addition to scientific study, it might be appropriate to include
Management, work in Language, and in areas related to the culture of the country
in which the student was working
.