Some of the material in the analysis course should be familiar from A-level, but it will be presented with the emphasis on proof. Differential Equations is essentially a course on applied analysis. As well as providing a first year introduction to astronomy, the course on The Solar System also illustrates this theme. Phenomena observed in planets and the sun are governed by the laws of mechanics and are usually closely related to phenomena which are familiar from the terrestrial environment. The possible exceptions are Relativity and Quantum Phenomena .
Computers are increasingly important in all of mathematics and theoretical physics.
The tutorials involve smaller groups and a lecturer or postgraduate student. The idea is to work through examples sheets handed out in the lectures and to discuss any problems with the material. The timetable also shows a class on Mathematical Techniques . This is a revision course which goes through the key elements of the A-level syllabus. Wednesday afternoons are kept free of teaching as this is the main day for university activities such as sport, drama and music.