Keele University Prospectus Undergraduate | 2016 | Page 52

NATURAL SCIENCES

Astrophysics
Overview

Astrophysics develops and applies the laws of
physics to problems across the universe, involving
phenomena from below the level of an atomic
nucleus to astronomical scales.
Astrophysical phenomena test physical laws to the
limit, and often beyond; the extreme conditions
encountered in the first moments of the big bang
provide the only known laboratory for testing
physical theories of the fundamental interactions,
and of the ultimate structure of matter. In their
work, astrophysicists use astronomical observations,
mathematical models and computer simulation to
propose, test, evaluate and develop theories that
explain these phenomena.

Dual honours Astrophysics core studies:
• Electromagnetism
• Astrophysics Project and Science Communication
Plus two options from the list below. Astrophysics
(Major) core studies:

This depth of understanding allows us to predict
behaviour and apply knowledge to improve the
quality of life both for individuals and for society as
a whole. There are many spin-offs from astrophysics
research that have impacted on our daily lives, from
developments in the detection of radiation as applied
to clinical medicine, to computer software and
hardware generated through the demands of such
research.

• Electromagnetism

Course content

• Computational Methods in Physics and
Astrophysics

First year
The first year provides an introduction and
consolidation of fundamental physics topics and
applies these to understand the internal st ructure
of stars. Lectures are complemented by a range
of practical work in physics and astrophysics,
mathematics and problem-solving sessions.

• Astrophysics Project and Science Communication
• Dissertation
Plus five options from the list below. Option
modules in the third year may be chosen from any
of the following:
• Atmospheric Physics
• Binary Stars and Extrasolar Planets

• Cosmology
• Data Analysis and Model Testing
• Life in the Universe
• Particles, Accelerators and Reactor Physics
• Physics of Compact Objects

Core modules:

• Physics of Fluids

• Mechanics, Gravity and Relativity

• Physics of Galaxies

• The Nature of Matter

• Physics of the Interstellar Medium

• Oscillations and Waves

• Plasma Physics

• Electricity and Stellar Structure

• Polymer Physics

Second year
The central themes of classical and modern physics
and astrophysics are developed in the second year.
Practical work includes an introduction to the analysis
of astronomical data. All lecture-based modules
are supported by problem-solving classes and also
include mathematical methods and lab work.

• Quantum Mechanics II

Core modules:
• Quantum Mechanics
• Optics and Thermodynamics
• Statistical Mechanics and Solid State Physics
• Stellar Astrophysics

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Third year
The third year contains advanced topics, including
options, in physics and astrophysics. You will
also undertake a group project. If you major in
Astrophysics in the third year you will study six core
and option modules, plus the group project, and
complete a dissertation. If you are on a dual honours
course in the third year you will study three core and
option modules alongside the group project.

• Quantum Physics of Atoms and Molecules

Laboratory work

Much of our understanding of physics and
astrophysics comes from observation and
measurement, and lab work is therefore an essential
experience for all physicists and astrophysicists.
There are laboratory sessions each week including
computational, team activities and group project
work. Labs are designed to investigate unfamiliar
phenomena and to acquire specific techniques and
skills. You will learn how to communicate your results
and ideas by means of discussions, abstracts and
reports or papers. The second and third years provide
increasing scope for creative work in the lab through
open-ended experiments and, in the third year, group
project work.