Please note, students taking this module should also have taken Electromagnetism and Optics -PHY00002I or the appropriate equivalent.
Module will run
Occurrence
Teaching period
A
Spring Term 2021-22
Module aims
This module considers the dynamics and evolution of the universe as a whole, with an examination of experimental observables. This will be followed by an introduction to properties of space and cosmological models. Finally we will look at the early phases, and the main epochs, in the development of the universe from the Big Bang to the present as well as links with particle physics.
Module learning outcomes
Explain the observed large-scale structure of the Universe with reference to cosmological models.
Explain how the cosmic microwave background provides evidence for the Big Bang
Derive the equations of motion in Newtonian Cosmology and contrast Newtonian and Relativistic cosmology
Understand the concept of curvature in the geometry of the Universe
Understand the meaning of the Cosmological Constant and the evidence for it
Understand how primordial nucleosynthesis and the cosmic microwave background provide clues to the early stages of the Universe’s evolution
Discuss and derive the consequences of different cosmological parameters on the time development of the universe
Define density parameter and critical density
Discuss and explain the main epochs of the early development of the universe
Discuss and explain the meaning and implications of inflation in cosmological models of the early universe
Understand the meaning of the baryon asymmetry and possible causes of it
Discuss the ‘magnetic monopole mystery’
Understand the potential role of gravitational wave observations in cosmological astronomy
Module content
Syllabus
Galaxy distribution and large-scale structure
Observations and relevance to cosmology
Cosmological models using Newtonian gravity and General Relativity
Curvature and the geometry of the Universe
The Cosmological Constant
The Big Bang Model and problems
Primordial Nucleosynthesis and Inflation
The Cosmic Microwave Background and Precision cosmology
Gravitational Wave Cosmology
Indicative assessment
Task
Length
% of module mark
Essay/coursework Cosmology Assignment 1
N/A
40
Essay/coursework Cosmology Assignment 2
N/A
60
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
Task
Length
% of module mark
Essay/coursework Cosmology Assignment 1
N/A
40
Essay/coursework Cosmology Assignment 2
N/A
60
Module feedback
Our policy on how you receive feedback for formative and summative purposes is contained in our Department Handbook.
Indicative reading
Liddle A: Introduction to modern cosmology (Wiley, 2003)
Elmegreen D: Galaxies and galactic structure (Prentice Hall)
Raine D & Thomas E G: An introduction to the science of cosmology (Taylor & Francis/IoP Publishing)
Coles P & Lucchin F: Cosmology: the Origin and Evolution of Cosmic Structure (Wiley)
Sparke L & Gallagher J: Galaxies in the Universe (Cambridge, 2007)