Properties of Matter (F3216)
Properties of Matter
Module F3216
Module details for 2017/18.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 3 (sub-degree)
Module Outline
1) Simple Harmonic Motion: SHM of an ideal horizontal mass/spring system. Rotating vector representation of SHM. Kinetic and potential energy of a harmonic oscillator. Examples of SHM. Damped Harmonic Motion.
2) Elasticity: Hooke's law. Elastic modulii. Poisson's ratio. Non-Elastic behaviour.
3) Fluids: Fluids at rest. Pressure. Density. Archimedes' principle and flotation. Stokes's law and terminal velocity. Hydraulic machines. Fluids in motion: streamline flow. The equation of continuity and Bernoulli's equation and their applications.
4) Temperature: temperature scales; thermometers; thermodynamic temperature and absolute zero; ranges of temperatures; zeroth law of thermodynamics.
5) Thermal Expansion: linear and volumetric expansion; solids and liquids; water.
6) Gas Laws: Boyle's Law, Charles's Law and Gay-Lussac's Law; equation of state and the ideal gas law.
7) Kinetic Theory of Gases: basic postulates; microscopic definition of temperature.
8) Thermal Energy: heat and temperature; quantity of heat; mechanical equivalent of heat; specific heat capacity.
9) Changes of State: melting and freezing; vaporisation and boiling; latent heat.
10) Transfer of Thermal Energy: radiation; convection; conduction.
11) Thermodynamics: basic concepts; first law of thermodynamics; conservation of energy; isothermal, isobaric, isometric and adiabatic processes; Second Law of Thermodynamics and the concept of entropy; heat engines and heat pumps; cyclic processes; analysis of thermal efficiency; the Carnot cycle and the concept of an ideal engine.
Module learning outcomes
Have acquired a basic knowledge of simple harmonic motion, elasticity, fluid dynamics, heat, thermal energy, thermodynamics.
Be able to solve problems related to physics and engineering at the appropriate level which requires the use of the knowledge.
Have acquired a sufficient understanding in the material of the course for subsequent core courses in physics and engineering which include properties of matter.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 20.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Problem Set | T1 Week 12 | 33.34% |
| Problem Set | T1 Week 8 | 33.33% |
| Problem Set | T1 Week 4 | 33.33% |
| Unseen Examination | Semester 1 Assessment | 80.00% |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Semester | Class | 1 hour | 111111111111 |
| Autumn Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 322222222222 |
| Autumn Semester | Workshop | 1 hour | 111111111111 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Elisabeth Falk
Assess convenor, Convenor
/profiles/109371
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