Mechanics & Properties of Matter Lab (H7117)
Note to prospective students: this content is drawn from our database of current courses and modules. The detail does vary from year to year as our courses are constantly under review and continuously improving, but this information should give you a real flavour of what it is like to study at Sussex.
We’re currently reviewing teaching and assessment of our modules in light of the COVID-19 situation. We’ll publish the latest information as soon as possible.
Mechanics and Properties of Matter Laboratory
Module H7117
Module details for 2024/25.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 3 (sub-degree)
Module Outline
The Mechanics and Properties of Matter Laboratory module offers a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of experimental physical science, focusing on simple mechanics and properties of matter experiments. Throughout the module, students will prepare, conduct, and interpret experiments while developing essential skills related to accurate measurements, record-keeping, and data analysis. Additionally, this module will foster the development of effective communication skills, enabling students to convey laboratory findings and concepts clearly.
Students will be encouraged to become independent learners and self-reliant scholars capable of the deep learning and higher-order thinking expected in Higher Education. The module is designed to foster intra- and inter-module synchronicity, supporting students with various learning styles through Kolb learning cycles and integrating effectively with the other modules of the Foundation Year course.
Topics:
Laboratory investigation topics
• Simple pendulum and SHM
• Constrained compound pendulum
• Spring and Hooke’s law
• Spring and SHM
• Moment of inertia of cylinders
Lecture and workshop topics:
• Error analysis
• Using Excel for calculations and graphs.
• Using MS Word to create lab reports.
• Using LaTeX to create graphs and lab reports.
• Writing and assessing lab reports.
Module learning outcomes
Make accurate measurements, keep records of observations, and analyse and interpret data in the context of mechanics and properties of matter experiments
Apply appropriate materials, equipment, and engineering technologies to solve problems in mechanics and properties of matter
Communicate effectively on laboratory findings and concepts in mechanics and properties
Demonstrate an understanding of risk management in the context of laboratory experiments
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 100.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Group Presentation | T1 Week 11 (15 hours) | 5.00% |
| Report | T1 Week 5 | 9.00% |
| Report | T1 Week 6 | 18.00% |
| Report | T1 Week 7 | 18.00% |
| Report | T1 Week 8 | 25.00% |
| Report | A1 Week 1 | 25.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Semester | Laboratory | 2 hours | 01000000000 |
| Autumn Semester | Pre Lab | 1 hour | 10000000000 |
| Autumn Semester | Lecture | 2 hours | 11000000000 |
| Autumn Semester | Practical | 3 hours | 01111111111 |
| Autumn Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 11000000000 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Jon Powell
Assess convenor
/profiles/578263
Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.
The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.