Key facts
UNE unit code: PHYS208
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
In this unit, you will study a topic taken from advanced physical sciences including computational physics, astrophysics, cosmology, plasma physics, fluid mechanics, superconductivity, particle and nuclear physics, quantum and classical mechanics, thermal and statistical physics, relativity, medical physics, sensor and wireless networks, technical sensing, electromagnetism and the history of physics.
We are currently offering the following topics:
1) Astrophysics and cosmology topic, which is more mathematically-oriented treatment of material than that covered in ASTY221.
2) Fluid Physics topic - explore the surprisingly complex world of fluids.
Contact the unit coordinator for advice on whether other topics will be offered.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
| Start | Finish | Duration | Attendance | Offerings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TBA | TBA | 4 days | Non-Mandatory Intensive School | All offerings | Offered in Trimester 1 (for the Astrophysics topic only). |
Enrolment rules
Notes
Not all topics will be offered each year. Currently the two topics "Astrophysics/Cosmology" and "Computational Quantum Physics and Chemistry" are being offered. The students may consult the unit coordinator for advice on whether additional topics will be available.
Candidates for a postgraduate award may seek permission from the unit coordinator to waive the pre-requisites
This unit is a repeatable unit.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- describe and discuss key aspects of the scientific models, theories and laws, and structures related to the chosen topic;
- demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the nature and practice of physics as related to the chosen topic;
- demonstrate skills in the application and use of physics in relation to the chosen topic;
- demonstrate an appreciation of the broader implications of physics related to the chosen topic; and
- identify and discuss current issues associated with research and development in physics related to the chosen topic.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 25% | All offerings | Topic-based assignment comprising numerical and/or computational problems and/or written discussion. Word count: equiv 2000 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 25% | All offerings | Topic-based assignment comprising numerical and/or computational problems and/or written discussion. Word count: equiv 2000 |
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Hurdle Task. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Discovering the Universe International Edition
ISBN: 9781319248611
Comins, N.F., W.H. Freeman 11th ed. 2018
Text refers to: All offerings
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