Module Specifications.
Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025
All Module information is indicative, and this portal is an interim interface pending the full upgrade of Coursebuilder and subsequent integration to the new DCU Student Information System (DCU Key).
As such, this is a point in time view of data which will be refreshed periodically. Some fields/data may not yet be available pending the completion of the full Coursebuilder upgrade and integration project. We will post status updates as they become available. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Date posted: September 2024
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Repeat the module Array |
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Description To introduce the student to advanced experimental and numerical techniques in the areas of Optics, Solid State Physics, Instrumentation, Process Control, but also chemistry, biology and for societal problems To enhance the students understanding of concepts presented in lectures. To provide the student with training in; good laboratory and coding practice; data and error analysis; data presentation and report writing. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning Outcomes 1. Carry out advanced level physics experiments. 2. Write an advanced computer program, in an appropriate computer language, to simulate/model/demonstrate a physics concept. 3. Identify the connection between experiment and theory and apply advanced theoretical physics concepts to the analysis of experimental data. 4. Record data in a systematic manner and maintain a laboratory notebook. 5. Produce a detailed written report, including correctly formatted tables, graphs and diagrams 6. Perform a detailed and comprehensive error analysis of experimental data. 7. Students will be aware of ethical issues with regard to plagiarism 8. Present results from computational and laboratory experiments | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Computational ExperimentsThe student carries out five computational experiments. Three are common with other cohorts: using the Euler, Runge Kutta, and graphical methods to solve differential equations numerically. Two are specific to this module and are selected from the following list: Principal Component Analysis (PCA), comparison of advanced data analysis techniques, Monte Carlo simulations, virtual experiments, chaotic systems modelling.Experimental LaboratoryThe student will carry out two real experimental projects some (10 hours each) The experimental projects will be selected from the following list: The Zeeman Effect, Birefringence/Transmission, Blackbody Radiation, Michelson and Mach Zhender Interferometer, The lock-in Amplifier, Optoelectronic Detectors, Shockley-Haynes effect, Magnetic damping.Computational group projectThe students employ numerical methods to explore a physical, chemical, or biological system governed by differential equations. These are small group (2-3 students) projects. Examples are the solar dynamo, Paul trap, Brusselator reaction, the heart beat, but also topical projects such as spread of an infection.Accompanying lecture materialThe lab is accompanied with online teaching material on important issues of laboratory and data analysis in general. This includes error progression, evaluation of correlation and uncertainties of least square fitting, as well as material on numerical modelling, software design and development, and use of version control systems. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Resources None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||