68412 Physics of Energy
Warning: The information on this page is indicative. The subject outline for a
particular session, location and mode of offering is the authoritative source
of all information about the subject for that offering. Required texts, recommended texts and references in particular are likely to change. Students will be provided with a subject outline once they enrol in the subject.
Subject handbook information prior to 2025 is available in the Archives.
Credit points: 6 cp
Result type: Grade and marks
Requisite(s): (68201 Physics 2 OR 68037 Physical Modelling) AND (33290c Statistics and Mathematics for Science OR 33230 Mathematics 2)
The lower case 'c' after the subject code indicates that the subject is a corequisite. See definitions for details.
Description
This subject explores the physics of systems and machinery that produce energy or that convert it from one form to another. It builds on the thermodynamics studied in introductory level subjects, and develops an understanding of fundamental scientific phenomena that underly both conventional and renewable energy systems. The topic is approached from the perspective of statistical mechanics and thermodynamics with an emphasis of developing problem-solving skills in practical applications of energy science. Energy systems and related issues are explored in pre-recorded lectures, face-to-face tutorial workshops and project-based group work. Students develop teamwork skills by completing a ‘real-world’ assignment that is framed in a workplace-relevant context.
Subject learning objectives (SLOs)
Upon successful completion of this subject students should be able to:
| 1. | Demonstrate an understanding of the relevance of thermodynamics to science and technology and the role which physics plays in the development of energy generation |
|---|---|
| 2. | Apply thermodynamic concepts to model problems in science and technology |
| 3. | Demonstrate an understanding of underlying concepts of thermodynamics at macroscopic and microscopic level |
| 4. | Demonstrate an understanding of thermodynamic processes and apply them to technical applications including energy generation |
| 5. | Communicate thermodynamic concepts clearly, logically and critically to scientific standard in written format |
| 6. | Research and analyse the literature to develop new disciplinary knowledge in an authentic research environment |
Course intended learning outcomes (CILOs)
This subject also contributes specifically to the development of following course intended learning outcomes:
- Demonstrate coherent understanding of physics and related knowledge applied to diverse contexts. (1.1)
- Evaluate the reliability of scientific evidence and apply effective experimental design, analysis and critical thinking to predict the behaviour of real-world systems using physical models (2.1)
- Engage autonomously or in teams to derive and analyse data from instrumentation and physical models to make ethical contributions to society. (3.1)
- Evaluate and design solutions to complex physical problems through creative problem-solving, using analytical, computational, and experimental approaches. (4.1)
- Apply effective and appropriate communication methods for discussing physics concepts, data and analysis with diverse audiences. (5.1)
Contribution to the development of graduate attributes
1. Disciplinary knowledge
1.1 Demonstrate coherent command of knowledge in core physics areas, such as mechanics, thermodynamics, optics, solid state physics, and quantum mechanics.
1.2 Recognise the fundamental role of physics knowhow in the development of technology (for example energy production).
2. Research, Inquiry and Critical Thinking
2.1 Tackle the challenge of real-world problems by identifying the underlying physics and critically evaluating different approaches (for example, in a quantitative comparison of the thermodynamics of various energy generation processes.
You will carry out a literature research project centred around energy efficiency and thermodynamics and write a discussion paper.
2.2 Gather, synthesise and critically evaluate information from a variety of sources, be they peer-reviewed physics/nanotechnology journals or other sources.
3. Professional, Ethicaland Social Responsibiity
3.1 Demonstrate the ability to work effectively within a scientific team, whether in a laboratory team or a project team.
Develop confidence with basic physics. Develop your ability to present a physically based argument. You will learn how to access available information resources to get the information you need for presentations and essays.
4. Reflection, Innovation, Creativity
4.1 Evaluate the veracity of information obtained from a variety of sources and incorporate these into learning processes, for example, engage a scientific framework to examine statements appearing in the public arena.
The subject has the opportunity for student autonomy, requires information literacy skills, fosters time management and scheduling skills, and requires students to review and comment on the work of their peers.
4.2 Appreciate the impact of physics on the issues faced by the society.
4.3 Promote scientific rigour in community debates, for example, on the efficient use of energy.
Energy generation will increasingly become important for domestic and industrial development. Learn about the issues and how physically based reasoning can contribute.
5. Communication
5.1 Construct a professional report on a topic of energy science, with appropriate acknowledgement of sources, demonstrating appropriate graphical literacy, scientifically rigorous interpretation of results and content at a level appropriate to a presentation in a workplace.
5.2 Prepare and deliver an appropriate physics oral presentation, possibly using a variety of media, with a content and style appropriate for a professional workplace
The subject should allow you to develop your written and oral skills. You will participate in discussions and assessment about each other’s work. Not everyone is a gifted communicator, but everyone can make a professional and competent job of communicating. Learn how to build and develop your skills. Understand how to assess written work and some of the techniques that can be used to communicate a message.
Teaching and learning strategies
The subject is taught using a workshop model and a blending learning approach. In practice, this requires students to do prework on the concepts and materials provided in Canvas and come to the workshops prepared to participate in carefully scaffolded collaborative learning activities. Students also work in small groups in the laboratory to further develop knowledge and practical skills that will contribute to the authentic assessment task.
Formative individual oral and written feedback and guidance is provided by the teaching staff in the workshops on the students' work. Students are expected to collaborate on their group work outside of formal class hours. Feedback on the students' work is provided in face-to-face workshops.
Content (topics)
The subject builds on your knowledge of energy and thermodynamics in the context of modern energy use and generation. You will develop your confidence to problem-solve using concepts learned in the first year and understand how these concepts are applied in real-world systems. The subject addresses energy systems such as solar, wind, geothermal, fossil, nuclear, fusion and other energy sources based on their physics as well as allowing you to explore other aspects that make these systems controversial. In the course of the project-based work you will build your capability to research the scientific and technical literature and then prepare a report on your investigation.
Assessment
Assessment task 1: Project
| Intent: | This assessment task contributes to the development of the following graduate attributes: 1. Disciplinary knowledge |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses subject learning objective(s): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 This assessment task contributes to the development of course intended learning outcome(s): 1.1, 2.1, 3.1, 4.1 and 5.1 |
| Type: | Report |
| Groupwork: | Group, individually assessed |
| Weight: | 30% |
| Criteria: | Understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of the investigation, implementation of appropriate data analysis steps, and clear, effective written communication of the problem-solving approach. A detailed assessment rubric is available on Canvas. |
Assessment task 2: Quizzes
| Intent: | This assessment task contributes to the development of the following graduate attributes: 1. Disciplinary knowledge 2. Research, Inquiry and Critical Thinking |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses subject learning objective(s): 1, 2, 3 and 4 This assessment task contributes to the development of course intended learning outcome(s): 1.1 and 2.1 |
| Type: | Quiz/test |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 30% |
| Criteria: | Marks will be awarded based on: (i) correct understanding of concepts, and (ii) accuracy of problem solving. |
Assessment task 3: Exam
| Intent: | This assessment task contributes to the development of the following graduate attributes: 1. Disciplinary Knowledge 2. Research, Inquiry and Critical Thinking |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses subject learning objective(s): 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 This assessment task contributes to the development of course intended learning outcome(s): 1.1 and 2.1 |
| Type: | Examination |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 40% |
| Length: | The duration of the exam is 2 hours. |
| Criteria: | Marks will be awarded based on the student's understanding of concepts and application of appropriate problem-solving strategies. |
Minimum requirements
A mark of 50% overall is required to pass this subject.
Recommended texts
Concepts in Thermal Physics by S. J. Blundell and K. M. Blundell, Oxford University Press, 2010. Online book can be accessed from the UTS library.
Other resources
The UTS Library subscribes to a wide range of academic journals, you can access these journals using databases like Google Scholar, Scopus and ScienceDirect.