PHYS203-13S1 (C) Semester One 2013

Relativistic and Quantum Physics

15 points

Details:
Start Date: Monday, 18 February 2013
End Date: Sunday, 23 June 2013
Withdrawal Dates
Last Day to withdraw from this course:
  • Without financial penalty (full fee refund): Sunday, 3 March 2013
  • Without academic penalty (including no fee refund): Sunday, 19 May 2013

Description

Introduction to relativistic mechanics, including space-time transformations, dynamics and collisions of relativistic particles. Introduction to quantum physics, bringing out its applications, including wave-particle duality, one dimensional barriers and wells, electron spin, electron configuration of atoms, lasers, semiconductors and quantum dots.

Part A. Relativity (12 Lectures, 4 Tutorials)

1. Relativistic Kinematics
2. Relativistic Dynamics

Part B. Quantum Physics (23 Lectures, 8 Tutorials)

1. Wave-Particle Duality
2. Wave-like properties of particles
3. Schrödinger Equation
4. Applications of Schrödinger Equation
5. Hydrogen atom
6. Electron configuration of atoms and molecules

Learning Outcomes

  • The goal of this course is to provide a thorough knowledge of relativistic dynamics and its application to various physical  situations. Provide a conceptual understanding of the physical principles of quantum mechanics, together with the technical understanding for applying these principles to determine the quantitative properties of physical systems where quantum physics is applicable.

    Students will:
  • Have mastered space-time transformations for reference frames travelling at relativistic speeds.
  • Have mastered techniques to calculate the dynamics of relativistic particles and collisions between relativistic particles.
  • Have acquired a conceptual understanding of the principles of quantum
    mechanics and their implications for physical measurements
  • Have mastered the mathematical techniques used to solve the
    Schrodinger equation in simple situations, and quantitively describe
    physical observables in related systems
  • Have developed and be able to demonstrate competency to solve appropriate
    physics problems in the concepts of the course
  • Have developed and be able to demonstrate writing and associated
    communication skills.

Prerequisites

(1) PHYS102; (2) MATH102 or EMTH118. These prerequisites may be replaced by a high level of achievement in level 3 NCEA Physics and Mathematics with Calculus or other background approved by the Head of Department. RP: MATH103 or EMTH119.

Restrictions

PHYS222

Recommended Preparation

Course Coordinator

For further information see Physics and Astronomy Head of Department

Assessment

Assessment Due Date Percentage 
Final Exam 54%
Homework 16%
Test 30%

Additional Course Outline Information

Academic integrity

Please consult the document General Information for Physics and Astronomy Students on the Physics and Astronomy Web Page.
http://www.phys.canterbury.ac.nz/courses/General.pdf

Indicative Fees

Domestic fee $747.00

International fee $3,488.00

* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.

For further information see Physics and Astronomy .

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