Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

The content of this unit includes the physical principles underlying radiation mechanisms, planetary astronomy, stellar birth and evolution, astronomy techniques, neutron stars and supernovae, optical telescope projects and computer modelling laboratories. The content is explored with reference to a range of applications and physical contexts, and developed and applied through laboratory and computer projects. Skills in problem identification, mathematical exploration and solution are fostered through assignment sheets and tutorial activities.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate an understanding of the physical principles underlying space electrodynamics, planetary astronomy, stellar astrophysics and astronomical techniques and modelling; (2) apply critical thinking skills in a range of realistic physical situations; (3) use appropriate mathematical techniques; (4) apply problem identification and mathematical solution skills in a range of realistic physical situations; (5) demonstrate an understanding of the physical principles of measurement, experimental technique, quantitative analysis and data analysis relevant to astronomy and astrophysics; and (6) demonstrate communication skills relevant to the discipline of physics.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) assignment; (2) laboratory; and (3) tests and examinations. Further information is available in the unit outline.

To pass this unit, a student must: (a) achieve an overall mark of 50 per cent or higher for the unit; and (b) achieve the requisite requirements(s) or a mark of 50 per cent or greater, whichever is higher and specified in the unit outline, for the laboratory component.

Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Mr Matthew Young
Unit rules
Prerequisites
PHYS2001 Quantum Physics and Electromagnetism
and PHYS2002 Many Particle Systems and
MATH2501 Advanced Mathematical Methods
or MATH3023 Advanced Mathematics Applications or equivalent
Incompatibility
PHYS2100 Stellar Astrophysics and Frontier Astronomy
Contact hours
Practical Classes: 2-hours per week
Project/Lab Work: 3-hours per week
Note
Semester two enrolment is available only under special circumstances. Please contact the unit coordinator.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.