Information for 2nd Year Physics Students
The second year continues with the study of the principles introduced in the first year including those of quantum theory and electromagnetism. It shows how these principles explain phenomena in areas such as astrophysics and fluids. A significant feature of the second year course is that you need to choose more than 25% of your modules from lists of options.
Aims
- To continue to study the principles of physics introduced in year 1
- To introduce new topics - some of which will be developed in subsequent years
- To prepare for future project work. This includes experience of retrieving information from the scientific literature and of writing formal reports
- To develop and refine students' kills in experimentation and computing
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the second year you should
- Have acquired a working fluency with mathematics - including vector calculus, the solution of differential equations and Fourier methods
- Have acquired a good knowledge of Electromagnetic Theory and Optics, Thermal Physics and Quantum Mechanics
- Be able to prepare a comprehensive report on a scientific topic, and to present an oral presentation of it to an audience of your peers and tutors
- Be able to carry out experimental investigations, and to assess the significance of the results (including consideration of any associated uncertainties)