Mathematical Physics Handbook (2014-15),
programmes FG31, FGH1, F344


Introduction

This handbook is intended as a guide to the various programmes which combine Mathematics with Physics. These comprise FG31 (Physics and Mathematics B.Sc.), FGH1 (Mathematical Physics M. Math.) and F344 (Theoretical Physics M.Phys.).


FG31 is a three-year programme which gives an equal balance between Mathematics and Physics. FGH1 and F344 are both four-year programmes. They are designed to give a more advanced and extended treatment of the subject and are aimed at students who intend after graduating to study for a higher degree or to enter industrial research. With a few minor differences, the two programmes FGH1 and F344 share the same syllabus; the degree of Mathematical Physics (M.Math.) or Theoretical Physics (M.Phys.) will be awarded according to the proportion of Mathematics to Physics modules chosen by the student in the final two years.
The detailed structure of these programmes is given below; for information regarding methods of assessment, and the rules for passing a year of study, together with more general information regarding the organisation of the University, the student should consult the University and the Maths undergraduate handbooks available under http://www.liv.ac.uk/maths-current-students/handbooks/ . For advice on these programmes, and in particular on which combinations of modules are suitable, contact the relevant Programme Director; currently Dr. T. Teubner (room 114, Theoretical Physics Wing of the Maths building, tel. 0151-7943791, e-mail: thomas.teubner@liverpool.ac.uk) is Director for all the above programmes. You should also see him if you wish to change your module combination or essay supervisor.


Programme Details

We give here the description of the structure of the various programmes. Detailed descriptions for all individual modules can be found under http://www.liv.ac.uk/maths-current-students/programmes-and-modules/module-details (for MATH modules) or (for PHYS modules) from the Department of Physics web-pages, see http://www.liv.ac.uk/physics/undergraduate/ . For some notes on Mathematical Physics essay projects see below.

The structure of the first two years for all programmes is fixed. These modules have been chosen to be exactly balanced between Mathematics and Physics modules; and to give a good coverage of all the areas of Maths and Physics which you will need in later years. There will be more choice in the subsequent year(s).





First Year


FG31, F344, FGH1



FIRST SEMESTER


MATH101

Calculus I

15

MATH103

Introduction to Linear Algebra

15

PHYS102

The Material Universe

15


FIRST AND SECOND SEMESTER


PHYS156

Practical Skills for Mathematical Physics

15


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SECOND SEMESTER


MATH102

Calculus II

15

MATH122

Dynamical Modelling

15

PHYS103

Wave Phenomena

15

PHYS104

Foundations of Modern Physics

15


After passing the first year with the above combination, you have the flexibility to transfer to Mathematics or Physics if you wish.



Follow these links for brief guides to choosing your modules.


Years 1 and 2   for all programmes FG31, F344, FGH1


Year 3 for programme FG31


Years 3 and 4 for programme F344

Years 3 and 4 for programme FGH1


Timetables


For timetables please check online on ORBIT.


Essay Projects MATH334, MATH432 and MATH420

The Mathematical Physics essay project MATH334 is optional in the Honours year of FG31; the Mathematical Physics essay project MATH432 is one of the available projects in the third year of FGH1/F344 (Mathematical Physics M. Math./M.Phys., Theoretical Physics M.Phys), while MATH420 is the compulsory Mathematical Physics essay in the fourth year of the M.Math./M.Phys. Mathematical Physics programme. The official descriptions of each of these modules may be found under http://www.liv.ac.uk/maths-current-students/programmes-and-modules/module-details . Each of these modules involves writing an essay on an individually chosen topic of current interest in Theoretical Physics. The object is to gain experience in handling specialist literature and reporting on it. Regular supervision and guidance will be provided. The third year modules MATH334 and MATH432 count as 15 credits, and are taken in the second semester, while the fourth year module MATH420 counts as 30 credits and lasts all year; this essay will be expected to show a greater depth of understanding.

A supervisor will be assigned towards the end of the previous semester; it is hoped that a topic can be mutually agreed before the vacation to give time for some preliminary reading. Students should then make arrangements to contact their essay supervisor during the first week of the term. The essay should be handed in after the Easter vacation; details of submission times and other requirements will be given in advance. Either handwritten or word-processed essays are acceptable in the case of MATH334, though a word-processed version will be required in the case of MATH432 and MATH420; students may use the word-processing facilities available on the university computing network. After completion of the essay, students will be required to give a short oral presentation on the subject of the essay.


More information and lists of possible topics can be found on the Maths Department's website under http://www.liv.ac.uk/maths-current-students/maths,projects/.

Relevant books and journals may be found in either the Harold Cohen Library or the Fröhlich Library in Theoretical Physics. Particle Physics and Nuclear Physics journals are kept in the Fröhlich Library. Third and fourth year Mathematical Physics students may use this room during office hours. Books and journals in the Fröhlich Library must be returned to their correct places on the shelves; they must not be taken away.



Dr. T. Teubner
email: thomas.teubner@liv.ac.uk