Physics Options
The physics modules (including core modules) are loosely grouped according to subject matter in the list below. Although any combination of the optional modules is allowed, you should bear in mind that modules on similar topics reinforce each other. This is particularly the case for Quantum Theory. It is also advisable to take the third year modules in each of the categories in which you intend to take fourth year modules. Some modules appear in more than one group. The dropdown menu on Mathematical Physics lists modules on physics or mathematics relevant to physics taught by Maths.
For those on the MPhys, it is advisable to take most of the third year modules in each of the categories in which you intend to take fourth year modules. You should note that understanding of the material taught in Advanced Quantum Theory will be assumed in Theoretical Particle Physics. The material should also support the modules Frontiers of Particles Physics, Condensed Matter Physics II and Quantum Computation and Simulation.
The subject areas, with fourth year modules for the current year. in italics, are listed below. The Streams and Timings link in the rh menu summarises connections between the third and fourth year modules.
SKILLS TRAINING
Communicating Science (core for BSc, not available to MMathPhys)
Laboratory for Maths/Physics Students (core for MMathPhys, not available to BSc)
Physics Project (option for BSc, not available to MMathPhys)
Scientific Progamming
Physics Project (core for MMathPhys)
High Performance Computing in Physics
ASTROPHYSICS
Galaxies and Cosmology, Black Holes White Dwarfs and Neutron Stars
General Relativity, Planets Exo-Planets and Life, Solar and Space Physics, The Distant Universe
CLASSICAL PHYSICS I
Electrodynamics (core for MMathPhys), Fluid Dynamics (core for MMathPhys, taught by the Maths Department), Kinetic Theory (core for MMathPhys), Statistical Physics
General Relativity
CLASSICAL PHYSICS II - Plasmas
Plasma Physics and Fusion
Solar and Space Physics
QUANTUM THEORY
Quantum Physics of Atoms (core for MMathPhys)
Advanced Quantum Theory, Theoretical Particle Physics, Quantum Computation and Simulation, Quantum Mechanics: Basic Principles and Probabilistic Methods (Maths Department)
QUANTUM PHENOMENA I - Particles and Nuclei
The Standard Model
Frontiers in Particle Physics, Theoretical Particle Physics
QUANTUM PHENOMENA II - Condensed Matter
Condensed Matter Physics
Condensed Matter Physics II, Structure and Dynamics of Solids
Quantum Computation and Simulation
INTERDISCIPLINARY
These are modules designed in part to show how the ideas and methodologies of physics are used and valued in other disciplines such as meteorology, medicine and physiology.