Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Nanophysics
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
11
1. Pre-requisites
Module
Code
B21NS
Semester
On or OffCampus
Credits
1
On
15
B29QS or equivalent
2. Linked Modules
(specify if synoptic)
3. Excluded Modules
4. Replacement Module
Code:
5.
Date Of Replacement:
6. Degrees for which this
is a core module
B21M-PHY
B23M-COM
B26M-ENG
B2NM-NAN
B2FM-SCI
Availability as an
Elective
Yes
No
X
MPhys Physics
MPhys Computational Physics
MPhys Engineering Physics
MPhys Nanoscience
MPhys Physical Science
MSc Nanotechnology and Microsystems
7. Aims
To provide the students with a working knowledge of the principles and practices of nanophysics
8. Syllabus
Quantum mechanical description of nanoscale phenomena
Thermodynamics of very small systems
Manipulation of Quantum states
Semiconductor nanostructures:
Heterostructures, quantum wells, wires and dots
Single electron devices
Current Transport in a quantum wire
Carbon nanotubes
Semiconducting and metallic states
Current transport
Magnetism on the nanoscale
Characterisation of nanoscale materials and devices
Optical characterisation
Structural characterisation (AFM, STM)
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Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Nanophysics
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
11
Module
Code
B21NS
Semester
1
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
9. Learning Outcomes (HWU Core Skills: Employability and Professional Career Readiness)
Subject Mastery
Understanding, Knowledge and Cognitive Skills
Scholarship, Enquiry and Research (Research-Informed Learning)
On completion of this module, the learner will be able to:
 Achieve a critical knowledge and understanding of nano-scale devices, their fabrication and characterisation
 Demonstrate a detailed knowledge and understanding of advanced concepts and applications in the nano-scale regime
 Demonstrate a detailed knowledge and understanding of semiconductor quantum devices
 Integrate previous knowledge from the physics course with the topics discussed in the module
 Analyse advanced problems in nanophysics
 Apply the theories of nano-scale devices to problems or situations not previously encountered
Personal Abilities
Industrial, Commercial & Professional Practice
Autonomy, Accountability & Working with Others Communication, Numeracy & ICT
Personal abilities are embedded in the module. The module provides the opportunity to :
 Apply the advanced core knowledge expected of a professional physicist to gain professional level insights,
 Communicate effectively with professional level colleagues
 Interpret, use and evaluate critically a wide range of data to solve problems of both a familiar and unfamiliar nature
 Manage time effectively, work to deadlines and prioritise workloads
 Use a range of ICT skills with on-line materials and web links to support the learning process
 Apply strategies for appropriate selection of relevant information from a wide source and large body of knowledge
 Exercise significant initiative and independence in carrying out learning activities and researching information
10. Assessment Methods
Method
11. Re-assessment Methods
Duration of Exam
Weighting (%)
Synoptic modules?
(if applicable)
Examination
3 hours
Method
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
100%
12. Date and Version
Date of Proposal
19/04/08
Date of Approval by
School Committee
Date of
Implementation
Version
Number
2
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