Key facts

UNE unit code: PHYS501

*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.

Start
  • Trimester 1 - On Campus
  • Trimester 1 - Online
Campus
  • Armidale Campus
24/7 online support
  • Yes
Intensive schools
  • No
Supervised exam
  • Yes
Credit points
  • 6

Unit information

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Chemists and physicists need a solid grasp on the principles that determine fundamental atomic and molecular properties. This unit will equip you with the basis for gaining this understanding.

You will learn to look from a molecular point of view to understand and predict the macroscopic properties of a system based on its microscopic properties.

You will investigate the symmetry and structure of molecules and crystals, and the spectroscopy of atoms and molecules.

You will explore statistical thermodynamics, and quantum mechanics and its application to model systems, as well as the connection between quantum mechanics and thermodynamics.

For those with strong physics and mathematics backgrounds you will explore quantum mechanics in greater depth.

Offerings

For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.

Teaching period
Mode/location
Trimester 1On Campus, Armidale Campus
Trimester 1Online

*Offering is subject to availability

Intensive schools

There are no intensive schools required for this unit.

Enrolment rules

Pre-requisites
candidature in a postgraduate award
Restrictions
PHYS301 or PHYS301A
Combined units

Notes

Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.

Unit coordinator(s)

Erica Smith

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. demonstrate an advanced and integrated knowledge and understanding of the physical basis for the properties of atoms and molecules on a level suitable as a basis for further study in the physical sciences;
  2. use specialist knowledge to solve complex numerical problems and/or numerical derivations in theoretical chemistry and physics;
  3. demonstrate autonomy in carrying out and interpreting complex experiments in theoretical chemistry and physics;
  4. critically evaluate the principles of theoretical chemistry and physics in order to calculate macroscopic properties from the individual molecules making up the system; and
  5. analyse critically the significance and interrelationships between and within the topics covered and will have the initiative and creativity to develop meaningful and complex experiments in theoretical chemistry and physics.

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.

TitleMust CompleteWeightOfferingsAssessment Notes
Assessment 1 - AssignmentsYes30%All offerings

Three (3) computational and calculation based assignments worth 10% each.

Assessment 2 - PracticalsYes20%All offerings

Four (4) remote practical exercises worth 5% each.

Final Examination - Assurance TaskYes50%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.

Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.

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We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*

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