Heat and Modern Physics (F3251)
Heat and Modern Physics
Module F3251
Module details for 2025/26.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 4
Module Outline
In this module, you will study thermal physics, special relativity, and fundamental quantum phenomena. You’ll learn about the laws of thermodynamics followed by macroscopic bodies, including concepts and phenomena such as pressure, internal energy and changes of state. You will learn about the modifications to Newtonian mechanics required when objects move close to the speed of light, including Lorentz transformations and phenomena such as time dilation and length contraction. You will moreover learn about the modifications of the intuitively accessible classical laws of physics required when dealing with microscopic objects, such as the uncertainty principle and wave-particle duality.
Module learning outcomes
Demonstrate knowledge of the zeroth and first laws of thermodynamics and bulk properties of matter, and ability to apply to physical problems
Demonstrate knowledge of elementary special relativity and apply to simple settings
Demonstrate knowledge of fundamental quantum phenomena and their interpretation
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Unseen Examination | Semester 2 Assessment | 80.00% |
| Coursework | 20.00% | |
| Coursework components. Average of best 2 coursework marks. | ||
| Problem Set | T2 Week 4 | |
| Problem Set | T2 Week 7 | |
| Problem Set | T2 Week 11 | |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 22222222222 |
| Spring Semester | Class | 1 hour | 11111111111 |
| Spring Semester | Workshop | 1 hour | 11111111111 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
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