Unit name | Mathematical Physics 202 |
---|---|
Unit code | PHYS23020 |
Credit points | 20 |
Level of study | I/5 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
Unit director | Professor. Rademacker |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
PHYS11400 and MATH11004, or extended mathematics units MATH11005, MATH11006, MATH11007, MATH12001. |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | School of Physics |
Faculty | Faculty of Science |
Physics is underpinned by a facility in mathematics. The unit introduces some core mathematical skills, building on the foundation from level C/4. The concepts of probability theory and basic statistics are introduced, relating them to situation encountered in physics. Vector methods and field theory are discussed in some depth, leading to partial differential equations and their solution by a number of methods including separation of the variable. Solutions of ordinary differential equations are covered and the concept of orthonormal basis function introduced and used. Fourier series and integrals are also emphasized.
Aims:
To introduce a number of key mathematical methods and their application to physical problems, including probability theory and statistical methods, vector field theory and solutions of partial and ordinary differential equations commonly encountered in a number of physics problems.
The unit will be taught through a combination of
Written timed, open-note examination (80%) Coursework (20%)
M. Boas, Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences
Also recommended for further reading:
Statistics - A Guide to the Use of Statistical Methods in the Physical Sciences - Manchester Physics Series
ISBN: 9780471922957