2017/18 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

PHYS2310 Physics 4- Quantum and Nuclear Physics

25 creditsClass Size: 175

Module manager: Prof B J Hickey
Email: b.j.hickey@Leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2017/18

This module is mutually exclusive with

PHYS2360

Quantum Mechanics (Joint Honours)

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Objectives

By the end of the module you should be able to:

QUANTUM MECHANICS

- write down the time dependent and time independent Schrodinger Equations;
- recall the form of and properties of wave functions, eigenfunctions and probability functions;
- derive the form of the wavefunction for a particle confined in an infinite square well;
- recall the form of the wavefunctions for other confining potentials;
- understand and use the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle;
- use operators to calculate expectation values;
- describe the concepts of symmetrical and antisymmetrical wave functions;
- explain in general terms the Pauli Exclusion Principle and use spin functions;
- describe the quantum mechanical model of the hydrogen atom;
- describe the electron configuration of atoms and their spectra;
- describe the quantum mechanical origins of ionic and covalent bonds.
- describe the principle of laser action


NUCLEAR AND PARTICLE PHYSICS
-estimate nuclear masses
-discuss different models of the nucleus
-explain and predict various forms of radioactive decay and nuclear reactions
-to discuss interactions of particles with matter and how these are used in particle detectors
-to discuss the components of the standard model
-to understand and interpret Feynman diagrams


CONDENSED MATTER

- use the density of states to explain some of the differences between metals, semiconductors and insulators;
- derive the free-electron density of states;
- perform straight-forward calculations based on the free-electron theory;
- explain how a periodic potential modifies the free-electron dispersion relation;
- solve problems on the transport properties of semiconductors;
- calculate the magnetic properties (consistent with the syllabus) of paramagnets and ferromagnets.

Learning outcomes
Demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of common physical laws and principles, and some applications of these principles.
Identify relevant principles and laws when dealing with problems.

Skills outcomes
Understanding of core Quantum Mechanics, Solid State Physics and Particle Physics

Syllabus

QUANTUM MECHANICS

Schrodinger equation, wave function, standard solutions, Hydrogen atom, spin, Pauli exclusion principle, Fermions and Bosons. 1st order time independent perturbation theory, periodic table, quantum structure, spectra of simple atoms, laser action.

PARTICLE PHYSICS

Elementary particles, fundamental forces, standard model of particle physics

CONDENSED MATTER

Molecular bonding, density of states, free electron model, semiconductors

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Workshop	12	1.00	12.00
Lecture	54	1.00	54.00
Tutorial	2	1.00	2.00
Private study hours			182.00
Total Contact hours			68.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			250.00

Methods of assessment

Coursework

Assessment type	Notes	% of formal assessment
Problem Sheet	Weekly	15.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)		15.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Exams

Exam type	Exam duration	% of formal assessment
Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc)	3 hr 00 mins	85.00
Total percentage (Assessment Exams)		85.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 28/03/2018

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