Registry

Module Specifications

Archived Version 2021 - 2022

Module Title	Physical and Thermal Properties of Matter
Module Code	PS105
School	School of Physical Sciences
Online Module Resources
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

This module provides a comprehensive introduction to static-equilibrium, elasticity, fluids, and thermal properties of matter.

Learning Outcomes

1. Discuss basic physical and thermal properties of matter
2. Solve numerical problems on physical and thermal properties of matter
3. Explain the physical principles which underpin the relevant experiments in the lab modules.
4. Relate the physical principles to topics covered in other modules.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full-time hours per semester
Lecture	30	No Description
Independent Study	95	No Description
Total Workload: 125

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

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Atoms and elasticity
Atomic structure of matter. Stress, strain & elastic moduli. Elasticity & plasticity. Thermal stress.

Introduction to Waves
longitudinal and transverse waves, physical picture, phenomena, and mathematical description

Sound and Hearing
pressure oscillations in gasses, mathematics of sound waves, application to hearing.

Temperature & Heat
Thermometers & temperature scales. Thermal equilibrium. Thermal expansion. Calorimetry & phase changes. Heat transfer

Kinetic theory of gases
Kinetic model of an ideal gas. Ideal gas law. Diffusion & mobility. Boltzmann factor & Maxwell distribution. Heat capacities.

Thermal properties of matter
Phases of matter. Phase changes & Clausius-Clapeyron equation.

First law of thermodynamics
Thermodynamic systems. Work done during volume changes. Internal energy & heat capacities. Adiabatic processes.

Second law of thermodynamics
Heat engines. Second law of thermodynamics. Carnot cycle. Microstates & macrostates. Multiplicity & entropy.

Fluids
Fluids as applied to static and dynamic environments.

Learning activities
The module has typically 15 graded homework assignments that vary from year-to-year, depending on the students' needs. They are 70% book-questions, and 30% the lecturer's.

Learning experience
'Lectures' are typically 50% working through previous Homework Questions, and 50% lecture on new material.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	100%	Examination Weight	0%

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Course Work Breakdown

Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; 1 = A resit is available for all components of the module 2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module 3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable

Indicative Reading List

H. D. Young and R. A. Freedman: 0, University Physics (with Mastering Physics), 15th edition, Addison Wesley,

Other Resources

None

Programme or List of Programmes

BSSA	Study Abroad (DCU Business School)
BSSAO	Study Abroad (DCU Business School)
ECSA	Study Abroad (Engineering & Computing)
ECSAO	Study Abroad (Engineering & Computing)
HMSA	Study Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science)
HMSAO	Study Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science)
IESA	Study Abroad (Institute of Education)
IESAO	Study Abroad (Institute of Education)
PGE	Physics General Entry
SHSA	Study Abroad (Science & Health)
SHSAO	Study Abroad (Science & Health)

Archives: