Physics and astronomy

Theoretical Physics

Module code: F3217
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Workshop
Assessment modes: Unseen examination, Coursework

On this module, you’ll get an introduction to common methods of theoretical physics. You’ll focus on classical mechanics while including relativity and some electrodynamics, specifically covariant formulation. You’ll get introduced to and apply mathematical concepts such as:

• Lagrangians
• least-action principle
• four-vectors
• tensors.

Pre-requisite

Pre-requisites:
Level 4: (F3201) Maths Methods 1 [T1] ; (F3202) Maths Methods 2 [T2].
Level 5: (F3204) Electrodynamics [T1] ; (F3205) Maths Methods 3 [T1]

Module learning outcomes

• Ability to state and explain key concepts of Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Mechanics, and relativistic mechanics and electrodynamics.
• Ability to solve basic problems in analytical mechanics.
• Ability to use four-vectors and tensors to solve basic problems in special relativity and electrodynamics.