Outline

Overview

Looking at the sky it is easy to forget our Sun and the stars are continuous giant nuclear explosions, or that nebulas are vast fields of ionized gases, all obeying the same laws of physics as anything else in the universe. Astrophysics gives us great insight in the larger structures of the universe, and plasma physics is key to understanding matter in space, but also in fusion reactors or for advanced material processing. This selective unit in the physics major will provide an introduction to astrophysics and plasma physics, complemented with experimental labs. You will study three key concepts in astrophysics: the physics of radiation processes, stellar evolution, and binary stars. You will gain understanding of the physics of fundamental phenomena in plasmas and apply basic methods of theoretical and experimental plasma physics. Examples will be given, where appropriate, of the application of these concepts to naturally occurring and man-made plasmas. You will learn and apply new experimental and data analysis techniques by carrying out in-depth experimental investigations on selected topics in physics, with expert tutoring. In completing this unit you will gain understanding of the foundations of modern physics and develop skills in experimental physics, measurement, and data analysis.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Physics Academic Operations
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	(PHYS2011 or PHYS2911 or PHYS2921) and (PHYS2012 or PHYS2912 or PHYS2922)
Corequisites ?	PHYS3035 OR PHYS3935 OR PHYS3040 OR PHYS3940 OR PHYS3941
Prohibitions ?	PHYS3937 or PHYS3042 or PHYS3043 or PHYS3044 or PHYS3942 or PHYS3943 or PHYS3944
Assumed knowledge ?	(MATH2021 or MATH2921 or MATH2061 or MATH2961 or MATH2067)
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Wave Ngampruetikorn, vudtiwat.ngampruetikorn@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s)	Helen Johnston, h.johnston@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s)	Iver Cairns, iver.cairns@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam	Final exam Final Exam	40%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Plasma physics quizzes Online quizzes	5%	Multiple weeks	Not timed	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Astrophysics computer labs Computer-based exploration of astrophysical problems	5%	Multiple weeks	4 x 1 hour sessions	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Contribution	Experimental Skills Workshop Experimental Skills Workshop/ Attendance of experimental skills workshops in weeks 1 and 10	5%	Multiple weeks Due date: 13 Jun 2025 at 23:59	5 hours	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Astrophysics assignment Written assignment	5%	Week 06 Due date: 02 Apr 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 14 Apr 2026	7 questions	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Problem assignment Assignment with non-written elements	10%	Week 09 Due date: 01 May 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 11 May 2026	Two questions	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Quizzes (experimental skills) Quizzes/Two short answer quizzes (experimental skills) on Canvas (anytime in semester)	2%	Week 11 Due date: 15 May 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 25 May 2026	1-2 pages	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Plasma physics assignment Written assignment	5%	Week 12 Due date: 22 May 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 01 Jun 2026	5 pages	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Experimental physics report Written assessment	10%	Week 13 Due date: 29 May 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 08 Jun 2026	4 pages	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	Experimental physics logbook Experimental logbook	13%	Weekly	6x4h lab sessions	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ?

Assessment summary

Assignments: There are three coursework assignments in this unit, one per module and one larger problem assignment using aspects
of both modules. You are encouraged to start early on the problem assignment, as you will be able to solve aspects from it as early as it is released.
Plasma physics online quizzes: There will be compulsory online lectures and a small quiz before each lecture starting from week 7; material covered in lectures will assume the reading has been done and will be part lecture, part tutorial. Each lecture's pre-reading and/or quizzes will need to be completed by the beginning of the lecture.
Astrophysics computer labs: There are four computer labs; these can be completed on your own, or you may attend the help session on Thursdays in weeks 2-5.
Experimental physics logbooks: Every student will carry out one or two experiments (the total number of experiments will be advised by the laboratory coordinator at the beginning of the semester). Experiments are to be completed in the times allocated to you. You must record the experiments you perform in a logbook (In Class experiment recording on logbook) as each experiment is carried out. This is the written record of the experiment. You should carefully read the section “Guidelines for Recording Experimental Work,” in the Experimental Physics Handbook (on Canvas), to see what is expected to be included in a logbook. Tutors will be available to help you. This is a hurdle assessment. Must be attempted & must meet hurdle mark threshold otherwise = AF grade
Experimental physics report: You will be required to write up one report on one of the experiments you do, based on the material already in your logbook. Reports are to be written in the style of a scientific paper in a specific journal. It is essential that you refer to the separate document “Senior Experimental Physics Report Guidelines” for instructions (available on Canvas). The experimental physics report is compulsory, and not handing in a report will lead to an Absent Fail grade for the whole unit. It is a hurdle assessment.
Experimental skills workshop and quizzes: You will also attend Experimental Skills Workshop in Weeks 1 and 10, and there will be quizzes on experimental skills available on Canvas.
Final exam: The final exam will have questions covering all coursework aspects of this course (astrophysics and plasma physics), and will be entirely paper- based. This is a closed book exam. Must be attempted & must meet hurdle mark threshold; otherwise = AF grade

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

Final exam: If a second replacement exam is required, this exam may be delivered via an alternative assessment method, such as a viva voce (oral exam). The alternative assessment will meet the same learning outcomes as the original exam. The format of the alternative assessment will be determined by the unit coordinator.

The final exam is compulsory. Failure to submit will result in an absent fail grade (AF) for the unit.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

For more information see sydney.edu.au/students/guide-to-grades.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Astrophysics: radiation	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 01	Experimental physics lab	Practical (1 hr)
Week 02	Astrophysics: radiation and stellar structure	Lecture (2 hr)
	Astrophysics: radiation and stellar structure	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Experimental physics lab	Practical (4 hr)
	Astrophysics computer lab 1: the Saha and Boltzmann equations	Practical (1 hr)
Week 03	Astrophysics: stellar evolution	Lecture (2 hr)
	Experimental physics lab	Practical (4 hr)
	Astrophysics computer lab 2: stellar evolution 1	Practical (1 hr)
Week 04	Astrophysics: stellar evolution	Lecture (2 hr)
	Astrophysics: stellar evolution	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Astrophysics computer lab 3: stellar evolution 2	Practical (1 hr)
	Experimental physics lab	Practical (4 hr)
Week 05	Astrophysics: stellar evolution and binaries	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 05	Astrophysics computer lab 4: Roche potentials	Practical (1 hr)
Week 06	Astrophysics: binary evolution	Lecture (3 hr)
	Astrophysics: binary evolution	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Experimental physics lab	Practical (4 hr)
Week 07	1. Plasma physics; 2. Debye shielding	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 07	Experimental physics lab	Practical (4 hr)
Week 08	1. Plasma physics: adiabatic invariants 2. The fluid equation of motion	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 08	Experimental physics lab	Practical (4 hr)
Week 09	1. Plasma physics: waves in plasmas; 2. Dispersion relations	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 09	Experimental physics lab	Practical (4 hr)
Week 10	Experimental physics lab	Practical (4 hr)
Week 11	Plasma physics: the sheath	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 11	Experimental physics lab	Practical (4 hr)
Week 12	Plasma physics: plasma distribution function; kinetic theory; The Boltzmann equation;. Revision	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 12	Experimental physics lab	Practical (4 hr)
Week 13	Plasma physics: plasma distribution function; kinetic theory; The Boltzmann equation;. Revision	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 13	Experimental physics lab	Practical (4 hr)

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. demonstrate an understanding of key concepts in two areas of physics - astrophysics and plasma physics
LO2. apply these concepts to develop models, and to solve qualitative and quantitative problems in scientific contexts, using appropriate mathematical and computing techniques as necessary
LO3. carry out and analyse experiments to measure specific effects
LO4. compare and critique experimental approaches
LO5. communicate scientific information appropriately, through written work
LO6. analyse a physical problem in plasma physics and astrophysics, and develop a formalism appropriate for solving it
LO7. demonstrate a sense of responsibility, ethical behaviour, and independence as a learner and as a scientist.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

No changes have been made since this unit was last offered.

Additional information

Work, health and safety

We are governed by the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 and Codes of Practice. Penalties for non-compliance have increased. Everyone has a responsibility for health and safety at work. The University’s Work Health and Safety policy explains the responsibilities and expectations of workers and others, and the procedures for managing WHS risks associated with University activities.

General Laboratory Safety Rules

No eating or drinking is allowed in any laboratory under any circumstances
Closed-toe shoes are mandatory
Follow safety instructions in your manual, posted in laboratories, and from staff
In case of fire, follow instructions posted outside the laboratory door
First aid kits, eye wash and fire extinguishers are located in or immediately outside each laboratory
As a precautionary measure, it is recommended that you have a current tetanus immunisation. This can be obtained from University Health Service: unihealth.usyd.edu.au/

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

PHYS3037: Plasma and Astrophysics

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links