Quantum Technology MSc
Magnetism & Superconductivity PHYS4010
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: School of Physics and Astronomy
- Credits: 10
- Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
- Typically Offered: Semester 2
- Available to Visiting Students: Yes
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
This course will explore the key principles and applications of Magnetism & Superconductivity, and their relevance to current developments in physics.
Timetable
18 lectures, typically 2 lectures per week
Excluded Courses
None
Co-requisites
None
Assessment
Assessment
Unseen examination, comprising compulsory short and long questions.
Coursework, in the form of group problems and short questions.
Main Assessment In: April/May
Are reassessment opportunities available for all summative assessments? No
It is the default expectation that all courses will offer opportunities for reassessment or deferred assessment. Where it is not possible to offer this in some assessment components, the grade achieved at the first attempt will be counted towards the final course grade, and any exceptions for this course are described below.
[No exceptions]
Course Aims
The aims of this course are:
1. To describe the key physical principles of magnetism and superconductivity
2. To explore the theory and applications of ferromagnetism and the macroscopic behaviour of ferromagnets
3. To explore the basic properties, phenomenology and applications of superconducting devices at low and "high" temperatures.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of this course students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of Magnetism and Superconductivity through the description and analysis of processes, relationships and techniques relevant to the following topics: diamagnetism and paramagnetism; ferromagnetism; macroscopic behaviour of ferromagnets; applications of magnetic materials; achievement and measurement of low temperatures; superconductivity - basic properties and phenomenological description; superconductivity on a microscopic scale; superconducting devices; ceramic "high temperature" superconductors.
2. Write down and, where appropriate, either prove or explain the underlying basis of physical laws relevant to the course topics, discussing their applications and appreciating their relation to the topics of other courses taken.
3. Apply the ideas and techniques developed in the lectures to solve general classes of problems which may include straightforward unseen elements.