PH328
Code
Module Title
PH328
Physics of the Environment I
Semester
ECTS
1
5
Examination Arrangements
Two hour examination
Emphasis is on environmental physics and how physical properties may be monitored.
Introductory Physics background
Molecular transfer processes. Diffusion and convection currents.
Measurement of relative humidity, temperature, pressure.
The electromagnetic radiation spectrum.
Air Quality
Heat conduction, convection, and radiation.
Global warming. Greenhouse gases. Ozone and UV radiation.
Aerosols. Air quality measurement and control. Air Quality Standards.
Clean room technology.
Effects of aerosols and pollutants on climate.
Built environment
Insulation. Heat pumps.
Thermal pollution. Humidity/condensation.
Fluid transport. Fluid dynamics.
Physical sensors for water quality monitoring.
Elementary data logging, recording, and analysis.
Acoustics. Noise in the environment.
Renewable energy sources.
Environmental aspects of renewable energy sources.
Energy use/waste in society.
Spectroscopy and radiation
Spectroscopic techniques for pollutant monitoring.
Overview of visible, UV, IR spectroscopy. Raman scattering.
Remote sensing.
Light and its measurement. Illumination. Microwaves.
Radiation monitoring. Effects of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.
Nuclear energy. Fission, fusion, and radioactive waste.
Waste treatment.
Overview of hazardous materials.
Environmental protection studies.