PHYM428 General Problems

2007-2008

Code: PHYM428
Title: General Problems
Instructors: Tutors
CATS credits: 20
ECTS credits: 10
Availability: MPhys programmes only
Level: M
Pre-requisites: N/A
Co-requisites: N/A
Background Assumed: All core MPhys modules
Duration: Semesters I and II
Directed Study Time: 9 tutorials (approx.)
Private Study Time: 191 hours
Assessment Tasks Time: -
Observation report: not applicable

Aims

Problem-Solving is the process of answering questions by using reasoning beyond the mere application of pre-learned procedures. Good physicists are able to solve many problems by the appropriate application of basic physical laws and by doing so demonstrate their knowledge of the relevant laws and deepen their understanding of the physical world. The ability to solve problems is also an essential life-skill, and most physics graduates earn a living not from their detailed knowledge of physics, but from their ability to solve their employers' problems.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to:

• transform textual and/or diagrammatic descriptions of systems into mathematical models;
• identify relevant and irrelevant information in a stated problem and supplement it with the general and subject-specific knowledge required to obtain a solution;
• design, execute and check a solution to a physical problem;
• solve problems and check solutions by considering and/or exploiting: dimensional analysis, symmetry, scaling properties, functional form, algebraic validity, limiting values and special cases, numerical reasonableness and units, etc.;
• make and justify appropriate estimates and approximations.
• explain and resolve paradoxes;
• identify the basic physical laws relevant to solving problems involving unfamiliar systems;
• identify, and correct, fallacious reasoning and/or the incorrect application of physical laws;
• present written solutions to problems in a manner that makes clear the methods, reasoning and assumptions used.

Transferable Skills

All learning outcomes are valuable transferable skills.

Learning and Teaching Methods

Self-study supported by tutorials.

Assignments

Problems sheets issued though tutors.

Assessment

One 180-minute examination (100%).

Syllabus Plan and Content

The examination may consist of problems on any area of physics. However, these will be soluble by applying laws and techniques included within the non-optional modules common to all MPhys programmes. Students will find past examination papers, distributed by PhysSoc, a useful guide to the style of problems that they can expect to encounter in the assessment.

Core Text

Not applicable

Supplementary Text(s)

Not applicable

Formative Mechanisms

This module is supported by tutorials. Students are able to monitor their own progress by attempting problems sheets distributed through the tutorial system.

Evaluation Mechanisms

The module will be evaluated using information gathered via the student representation mechanisms, the staff peer appraisal scheme, and measures of student attainment based on summative assessment.