Studying at York
Cosmology - PHY00055H
Related modules
Pre-requisite modules
Co-requisite modules
- None
Prohibited combinations
- None
Additional information
Please note, students taking this module should also have taken Electromagnetism and Optics -PHY00002I or the appropriate equivalent.
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching cycle |
|---|---|
| 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
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
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)
Roos M: Introduction to Cosmology (Wiley, 2003)
