View Specification DocumentThermal Physics PHYS4030
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: School of Physics and Astronomy
- Credits: 15
- Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
- Typically Offered: Semester 1
- Available to Visiting Students: Yes
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
To provide students with an opportunity to develop knowledge and understanding of the key principles and applications of Thermal Physics, and their relevance to current developments in physics.
Timetable
Three 1-hour lectures per week throughout semester 1
Requirements of Entry
This course is normally only open to students who meet the requirements for entry, or progression, for a degree programme which includes Thermal Physics as an elective or compulsory course.
Thermal Physics is a compulsory course for the following degree programmes:
BSc (Honours) Physics, BSc (Honours) Combined Physics, BSc (Honours) Chemical Physics, BSc (Honours) Physics with Astrophysics, MSci Physics, MSci Theoretical Physics, MSci Combined Physics, MSci Physics with Astrophysics, MSci Chemical Physics, MSci Chemical Physics with Work Placement
Thermal Physics is an elective course for the following degree programmes:
BSc (Designated) Physics, BSc (Designated) Combined Physics, BSc (Designated) Physics with Astrophysics
Excluded Courses
None
Co-requisites
Mathematical Methods 1; Quantum Mechanics
Assessment
Examination (80%) and open book tutorial exercises (20%).
Main Assessment In: December
Course Aims
To provide students with an opportunity to develop knowledge and understanding of the key principles and applications of Thermal Physics, and their relevance to current developments in physics.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of the course students will be able to demonstrate a knowledge and broad understanding of Thermal Physics. They should be able to describe and analyse quantitatively processes, relationships and techniques relevant to the topics included in the course outline, applying these ideas and techniques to solve general classes of problems which may include straightforward unseen elements. They should be able to write down and, where appropriate, either prove or explain the underlying basis of physical laws relevant to the course topics, discussing their applications and appreciating their relation to the topics of other courses taken.