BSc Materials Science and Engineering

This unit introduces the physics required to understand the behaviour and properties of materials including common examples of where the physics are applied

The unit aims to:  

• Introduce the physics required to understand the behaviour of materials, from states of matter, subatomic structure to bonding.
• Introduce the basics of atomic arrangement in solids.

A greater depth of the learning outcomes will be covered in the following sections:

• Knowledge and understanding
• Intellectual skills
• Practical skills
• Transferable skills and personal qualities

This unit is delivered using a blended learning approach, which integrates technology and digital media with traditional classroom activities. A variety of learning and teaching processes will be used including: lectures, discussions, group activities and independent study. Canvas will be used to present online study materials, including videos, lecture notes, guided reading, articles and other information. Canvas will also be used for the submission of assessments.

• Know the states of matter. 
• Understand atomic electron energy levels, the associated quantum numbers and their relationship to the periodic table. 
• Mathematically describe a wave. 
• Understand the concept of wave-particle duality of light. 
• Descriptively explain Schrodinger’s wave equation. 
• Understand atomic bonding and the formation of bands .
• Understand the concept of a band gap and relate it to the different classes of conducting materials. 
• Understand the characteristics of the bands. 
• Define amorphous and crystalline solids at the atomic structure level.
• Describe and construct the structure of a crystalline solid for a given lattice structure and motif. 
• Determine 2D and 3D lattice directions and planes (Miller indices) using crystallgraphic notations.
• Construct and analyse the principal metallic crystal structures (HCP, FCC and BCC)
• Define elastic properties of materials (Young’s modulus and shear modulus).
• Apply linear elasticity to calculate elastic deformation of materials
• Explain the relationship between stiffness and atomic bonds.
• Define thermal properties of materials (heat capacity, thermal expansion, thermal conductivity and thermal stresses) and interpret their origins at the atomic level.

• Show improved logical reasoning, problem solving and ability in applied mathematics. 
• Apply the concepts of packing to a wide variety of structures, including metals, ceramics, polymers and natural materials.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the physical principles that determine the properties of a material.

• Develop an awareness of practical issues when using a visible light spectrometer to characterise the spectra produced by different types of lighting products; understand the physical principles and characteristics of different light sources. 
• Develop an awareness of practical issues when performing mechanical testing (i.e. compression and shear testing) and understand the graphical representations of the experiment results; calculate elastic properties of the materials based on the experiment data and explain the results using atomic bond theories.

• Convert word problems into equations and numerical answers. 
• Develop techniques for estimating the results from calculations. 
• Work effectively in a group to solve problems. 
• Compose simple technical reports on laboratory tests.
• Plan for experimental activities.
• Be aware of the importance of health and safety protection measures in experiment design.
• Comparative analysis of different sample sets focusing on cause and effect and cross-referencing experimental results with the literature.

Feedback given verbal + written

The recommended reading for this unit can be found in the weekly folders on Canvas.

Tuition fees for home students commencing their studies in September 2027 will be £10,050 per annum. Tuition fees for international students will be £41,900 per annum.

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