Course Details in 2022/23 Session

Module Title	LC Introduction to Probability and Statistics
School	Physics and Astronomy
Department	Physics & Astronomy
Module Code	03 33961
Module Lead	Dr Guy Davies
Level	Certificate Level
Credits	10
Semester	Semester 1
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	None
Contact Hours	Lecture-24 hours Tutorial-11 hours Guided independent study-65 hours Total: 100 hours
Exclusions
Description	This module develops the mathematics needed to describe randomness and probability, from discrete outcomes to continuous distributions. Probability enters physics in a fundamental way in the quantum mechanical description of nature, and in the statistical thermodynamic treatment of macroscopic systems. It is also needed to extract physical parameters from experimental data, and understand the uncertainties inherent in all such data. The first half of the module develops the probability theory required by physics modules in the first three years of physics programmes, whilst the second half applies this theory to the problems of experimental uncertainties, parameter estimation, and fitting theoretical models to experimental data.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: Convert a description of a probability problem into a space of possible outcomes and their probabilities, and use this information to calculate conditional probabilities. Use discrete and continuous probability distribution functions, and compute probabilities, averages and variances of such distributions. Recognise problems which can be described by binomial or Poisson distributions.Define and use the normal distribution function, and understand its emergence from the central limit theorem. Understand the origin of experimental uncertainties, both random and systematic.Combine random uncertainties in several experimental variables. Estimate physical parameters by fitting a theoretical model to experimental data.Understand and apply linear regression to find the best straight line fit between two variables, and understand the idea of covariance and regression coefficient.
Assessment	33961-01 : Examination : Exam (Centrally Timetabled) - Written Unseen (80%) 33961-02 : Assessed problems : Coursework (20%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Class Test (20%); 1.5 hours Examination (80%)
Other
Reading List