The second year work in Physics builds on what you learnt in the first year in fundamental areas, such as quantum mechanics, and electricity and magnetism, whilst at the same time introducing a number of topics, where the physics you have already learnt is applied to new areas. A significant feature of the second year course is that since you choose more than 25% of it from option lists. In addition to your physics you will continue with the gateway to Business Studies component of your course.
AIMS (click to expand)
- To build on, and extend, topics already introduced in year 1
- To introduce new topics in physics and business studies which will be developed in the third year
- To develop students' skills in communication, computing and experimentation
LEARNING OUTCOMES
At the end of the second year you should
- Have acquired a good working fluency with mathematics - including vector calculus, the solution of differential equations (both ordinary and partial) and Fourier methods
- Have acquired a good knowledge of basic physics, including Electromagnetic Theory and Optics, Thermal Physics and Quantum Mechanics
- Be able to prepare a report on a scientific topic, and to present an oral presentation of it to an audience constituted of your peers and tutors
- Be able to carry out experimental investigations using standard and more novel pieces of equipment, and to assess the significance of their results (including consideration of any associated uncertainties)
- Have acquired sufficient knowledge on certain aspects of Business Studies to enable you to proceed to the 3rd year
