Overview
Offerings
Requisites
Contacts
Chief Examiner(s)
Unit Coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Determine the definitive characteristics of the key classes of materials, recognise common prototype structures for metallic, ionic and ceramic crystals, and possess an understanding of the factors influencing the development of these structures.
Describe fundamental concepts in elementary crystallography, including crystal lattices and the concept of motif, crystal structures, elements of symmetry and their representation, atom packings, lattice planes and directions.
Describe the geometry and crystallography of common crystal defects, and their effects on material properties.
Describe how waves (including light, X-rays, neutrons and electrons) interact with materials leading to diffraction and other effects.
Interpret results of basic characterisation techniques which include optical microscopy, XRD, TEM and describe more techniques which can be used to characterise the structure of materials at an atomic or microscopic scale.
Use basic laboratory skills to study the atomic-scale structure of materials, be able to work effectively within a team in carrying out laboratory work, be able to keep appropriate laboratory records and develop skills to communicate the results and conclusions of practical work.
Teaching approach
Assessment summary
Continuous assessment: 50%
Final assessment: 50%
This unit contains threshold hurdle requirements that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.
Assessment
Scheduled and non-scheduled teaching activities
Workload requirements
Learning resources
Other unit costs
The following item is mandatory for practical aspects of the unit and should be purchased at your own cost as you will be reusing them throughout your course.
- Calculator
Protective clothing and equipment:
• Laboratory coat - approximately $35 to $50
• Safety glasses - approximately $8, or prescription safety glasses (if required) - approximately $350
• Laboratory-appropriate enclosed footwear (non-porous material, equipped with non-absorbent, slip-resistant soles)
Costs are indicative only.