Detailed Information
2PHYC20030 - Thermal Physics and Materials (Credit)* - 2017
Thermal Physics is concerned with the study of the properties of systems containing a large number of particles. Materials physics is concerned with describing the mechanical properties of bulk objects. This module will introduce the student to the basic concepts of thermodynamics and apply them to the study of a number of relevant physical systems from both a macroscopic and microscopic point of view. In doing so, the connection between the bulk properties of matter and the mechanics of atoms and molecules will be derived. In the first part of the course, emphasis will be given to the concepts of temperature and thermal equilibrium, the first law of thermodynamics, entropy and the second law of thermodynamics, and the kinetic theory of gases. In the second part, the material properties of solids will be investigated. This includes concepts such as interatomic forces and bonding, elasticity and the stress and strain of materials.
Semester 2
Level 2
Lectures: Mondays, 12:00 - 13:00 and Wednesdays, 11:00 - 12:00
Laboratories to be selected.
If you are taking this module for credit, please take note of the dates below:
Term dates for revision: Saturday, 27 April - Sunday, 5 May
Term dates for exams: Tuesday, 7 May – Saturday, 18 May
Open Learning Fee (audit only) €350 per module
Open Learning Fee (with assessment) €500 per 5 credit module
Upgrading from audit to credit: You may upgrade from being an audit student to a credit student up to three weeks into term. Please note, however, that you can't change back to being an audit student - if you decide not to complete the assignments and/or sit the exams, this will appear on your academic record.
Concessions
There are no concessions available for Open Learning modules.
Refunds
Refunds may in some instances be available for extenuating circumstances, such as serious illness, within two weeks of the start of the module. Requests for refunds must be submitted in writing, with supporting documents where appropriate.
Dr Thomas McCormack