Key facts
UNE unit code: PHYS301
*You are viewing the 2025 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 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 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate an 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;
- apply this understanding to solve simple numerical problems and/or numerical derivations in theoretical chemistry and physics;
- apply this understanding to carry out and interpret simple experiments in theoretical chemistry and physics;
- apply the principles of theoretical chemistry and physics to calculate macroscopic properties from the individual molecules making up the system; and
- explain the significance and interrelationships between and within the topics covered and will be able to develop meaningful 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.
Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Assessment 1 | Yes | 10% | All offerings | These are computational and calculation based assignments. The assignment component is mandatory and will count towards the final assessment of this unit. |
Assessment 2 | Yes | 10% | All offerings | These are computational and calculation based assignments. The assignment component is mandatory and will count towards the final assessment of this unit. |
Assessment 3 | Yes | 10% | All offerings | These are computational and calculation based assignments. The assignment component is mandatory and will count towards the final assessment of this unit. |
Assessment 4 | Yes | 10% | All offerings | These are computational and calculation based assignments. The assignment component is mandatory and will count towards the final assessment of this unit. |
Assessment 5 | Yes | 5% | All offerings | Practical exercise which can be completed remotely. |
Assessment 6 | Yes | 5% | All offerings | Practical exercise which can be completed remotely. |
Assessment 7 | Yes | 5% | All offerings | Practical exercise which can be completed remotely. |
Assessment 8 | Yes | 5% | All offerings | Practical exercise which can be completed remotely. |
Final Examination | Yes | 40% | All offerings | It is mandatory to pass this component in order to pass this unit. |
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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Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
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.*
*The Good Universities Guide
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