Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Physical Mathematics 1
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
9
1. Pre-requisites
Module
Code
B29CA1
Semester
On or OffCampus
Credits
1
On
15
B88AO and B88AP or equivalent
2. Linked Modules
(specify if synoptic)
3. Excluded Modules
4. Replacement Module
Code:
6. Degrees for which this
is a core module
Date Of Replacement:
All physics degrees.
BEng & MEng in “Electronics and Photonics”
5.
Availability as an
Elective
Yes
No
X
7. Aims
To give an introduction to vector calculus that enables students to compute line, surface and volume integrals and to apply the Divergence, Stokes' and
Green's theorems.
To solve basic ordinary differential equations and how to use them for modelling.
To obtain discrete spectra using Fourier expansions in time and space.
8. Syllabus
Revision of Vector Algebra, Vector Geometry and Partial Derivatives.
Gradient, Divergence, Curl and Laplacian. Expansion Formulae and Vector Operation Identities.
Lines, Surfaces and Volumes: Differentiation and Integration of vector functions of one parameter. Line Integrals, Surface Integrals and Double
Integration. Green’s and Stokes' Theorems. The Divergence Theorem. Volume Integrals in Cartesian and Polar Coordinates.
Linear ordinary differential equations and modelling.
The delta function.
Fourier series in space and time.
1/3
Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Physical Mathematics 1
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
9
Module
Code
B29CA1
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)
_ Apply grad and Laplacian to scalar functions.
_ Apply div and curl to vector valued functions.
_ Verify simple Vector Calculus identities.
_ Use parametric representation of curves, surfaces and volumes.
_ Evaluate line integrals.
_ Evaluate simple surface integrals using appropriate theorems.
_ Evaluate simple volume integrals.
_ Be able to apply the various Green's identities.
_ Be able to apply the Divergence theorem.
_ Be able to apply Stokes' theorem.
_ Solve linear differential equations and devise them for modelling of physical systems.
_ Comprehend the meaning of frequency components of periodic signals and structures.
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?
Method
(if applicable)
Examination
Coursework
3 hours
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
70%
30%
Examination
3 hours
2/3
Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Physical Mathematics 1
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Physics Teaching Group Convener
SCQF
Level
9
Module
Code
B29CA1
Semester
1
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
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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